Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table with the most decadent, mouthwatering spoon bread you've ever tasted! This Herbed Mushroom Spoon Bread is not just a side dish – it's a creamy, luxurious experience that combines the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms with the comforting texture of cornmeal, creating a dish that's simultaneously rustic and elegant. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a truly spectacular comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the chopped mushrooms over medium-high heat until they release their moisture and become golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper.
- Remove the cornmeal mixture from heat. Stir in the grated cheese, chopped thyme, and sautéed mushrooms until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Slowly temper the eggs by adding a small amount of the warm cornmeal mixture while continuously whisking to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Gradually fold the tempered egg mixture back into the cornmeal mixture, ensuring everything is thoroughly incorporated.
- Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let the spoon bread rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to scoop.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh thyme if desired. The texture should be soft, creamy, and pudding-like.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your milk is just simmering when adding cornmeal to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
- Mushroom Magic: Take your time sautéing mushrooms – letting them develop a golden-brown color concentrates their flavor and removes excess moisture.
- Egg Tempering Technique: Always temper your eggs slowly by adding small amounts of hot mixture while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Don't Overmix: Fold ingredients gently to maintain the light, airy texture of the spoon bread.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and makes scooping easier.
- Cheese Flexibility: Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or gruyère for unique flavor profiles.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh thyme if possible – it provides a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 183kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 9g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
