Casserole with mushrooms and potatoes

Here's a hearty recipe for Mushroom and Potato Casserole:

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your choice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Prepare Potatoes:

   • Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). Place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

3. Sauté Mushrooms and Onions:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary if using. Remove from heat.

4. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and milk until well combined.

5. Layer Ingredients:

   • Drain the potato slices and pat them dry. Arrange a layer of potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Spread a portion of the mushroom mixture over the potatoes.
   • Sprinkle with some of the cheddar cheese.
   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

6. Add Topping (Optional):

   • If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake:

   • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This mushroom and potato casserole is creamy, comforting, and full of savory flavors. Enjoy it as a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish!