I love recreating classic steakhouse sides at home, and this mushroom and Gruyère au gratin is one of my favorites. I get rich, earthy mushrooms coated in a creamy sauce, then baked until the Gruyère melts into a golden, bubbling topping. It feels indulgent and comforting, yet simple enough to prepare without stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with everyday ingredients. I get deep umami from the mushrooms, creaminess from the sauce, and a nutty finish from the Gruyère. I also enjoy how versatile it is, since it pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or even a simple salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb mushrooms (white or cremini), sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). I grease a small baking dish and set it aside.
I heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the sliced mushrooms and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden and tender.
I stir in the garlic and cook it briefly until fragrant. I then pour in the heavy cream and milk, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, and let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
I transfer the mushroom mixture to the prepared baking dish. I sprinkle the Gruyère evenly over the top, followed by the Parmesan.
I bake the dish uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I finish it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to get a lightly golden top, then let it rest briefly before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 10 minutes, cooking time is about 25 minutes, and total time comes to roughly 35 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add a tiny pinch of fresh thyme or rosemary for extra savory flavor. When I want a deeper taste, I mix in a few sautéed shallots with the mushrooms. I also like swapping half of the Gruyère with Swiss cheese for a slightly milder profile.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or I use the microwave in short intervals, stirring gently if possible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
I often mix cremini with shiitake or portobello for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Is this dish vegetarian?
I consider it vegetarian since it contains no meat, but I always double-check cheese labels if that matters to me.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I prepare the mushroom mixture in advance and assemble the dish just before baking for the best texture.
What can I serve with this au gratin?
I love serving it with steak, roasted chicken, or even as a rich side alongside green vegetables.
Can I freeze this recipe?
I do not recommend freezing it, since the cream sauce can separate and change texture when thawed.
Conclusion
I enjoy making this Ruth’s Chris–style mushroom and Gruyère au gratin when I want an elegant, comforting side dish. The creamy mushrooms and melted cheese always make it feel special, and it never fails to impress at the table.
A rich, creamy side dish featuring sautéed mushrooms in a savory cream sauce topped with melted Gruyère and Parmesan cheese, inspired by the classic Ruth’s Chris steakhouse style.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb mushrooms (white or cremini), sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a small baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and golden, about 8–10 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the mushroom mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Top with grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until bubbly and melted.
Broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden. Let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Mix in sautéed shallots for a deeper taste.
Swap half of the Gruyère with Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.