cheesy baked casserole

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Creamy Cheesy Biscuit-Topped Casserole

This comforting casserole combines soft, flaky biscuits with a rich, creamy filling and a generous topping of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is both hearty and satisfying.

Introduction

Cheesy biscuit-topped casseroles are a beloved staple in comfort food. They pair savory fillings with buttery biscuits baked to golden perfection. This dish brings together the warmth of a creamy base, the freshness of herbs, and the irresistible allure of melted cheese.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This style of casserole has roots in Southern American cuisine, where hearty, carb-rich meals are cherished for their ability to bring families together around the dinner table. The use of biscuits as a topping showcases the region’s love for versatile and simple ingredients that can be adapted to create indulgent meals.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Biscuit Topping:

  • 1 can (8 biscuits) refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade biscuits)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • Add cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor.
  • Include a cup of frozen peas or diced carrots for a vegetable boost.
  • Substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Tips for Success

  • Consistency of the Sauce: Ensure the creamy sauce is thick enough to hold the filling together but not overly thick.
  • Pre-Cook the Biscuits: Bake the biscuits halfway before adding them on top to ensure they’re cooked through.
  • Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
  • Bake Evenly: Cover with foil if the biscuits brown too quickly before the filling is heated through.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions and mushrooms until softened.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and cream.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add the cooked chicken and mix until well combined.

2. Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Pour the creamy chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the biscuits on top of the filling.

3. Add the Cheese and Bake:

  1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the biscuits.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden and cooked through and the cheese is bubbling.

4. Garnish and Serve:

  1. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Description

This casserole combines a creamy, savory filling with soft, golden biscuits crowned with gooey, melted cheese. Each bite delivers comforting flavors of chicken and mushrooms balanced by the richness of the sauce and the fluffiness of the biscuit topping.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, serves 6)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g

Conclusion

The Creamy Cheesy Biscuit-Topped Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, delivering hearty, cheesy goodness in every bite. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Recommendation

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for meal prepping, as leftovers reheat beautifully for lunches or dinners.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While indulgent, this dish can be made lighter with simple swaps like low-fat milk, whole-grain biscuits, or reduced-fat cheese. However, its true charm lies in the satisfying, rich flavors that make it a classic family favorite.

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