Garlic mushrooms in Parmesan cheese make for a delicious and simple dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course for mushroom lovers.
This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring that your mushrooms turn out perfectly every time. Along the way, you will also find helpful tips to enhance the dish and avoid common mistakes.
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Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of fresh mushrooms (preferably button or cremini)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice (optional, for added zest)
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Mushrooms
First, clean the mushrooms thoroughly. You can do this by wiping them with a damp paper towel or gently brushing off any dirt. Avoid washing them under running water as mushrooms absorb moisture quickly, which can make them soggy when cooked.
Tip: If the mushrooms are particularly dirty, rinse them quickly under cold water and pat them dry immediately with paper towels. This ensures they don’t absorb too much water.
2. Slice the Mushrooms
Once cleaned, slice the mushrooms evenly. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can quarter them instead of slicing.
Tip: Consistent slicing ensures that the mushrooms cook evenly and have a uniform texture.
3. Mince the Garlic
Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the dish, so avoid using pre-minced garlic from jars.
Tip: To easily peel garlic, crush the cloves lightly with the flat side of a knife before peeling. This makes the skin come off more easily.
4. Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. The combination of these fats adds depth to the flavor and prevents the butter from burning.
Tip: Use a pan with a wide base to allow the mushrooms to cook evenly without overcrowding. This helps them brown properly.
5. Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
6. Add the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir well to coat the mushrooms with the garlic-infused oil and butter. Cook the mushrooms for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the mushrooms to release their moisture and start to caramelize.
Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If the mushrooms are too close together, they will steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
7. Season the Mushrooms
As the mushrooms cook, season them with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released most of their moisture.
Tip: If you like a hint of acidity, add a splash of lemon juice at this stage. It brightens up the flavor and balances the richness of the dish.
8. Add Parmesan Cheese
Once the mushrooms are cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mushrooms. Stir gently to combine and allow the cheese to melt into the mushrooms, creating a creamy, savory coating.
9. Garnish with Parsley
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the mushrooms. Parsley adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and garlic. It also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
10. Serve Immediately
Transfer the garlic mushrooms in Parmesan cheese to a serving dish. They are best enjoyed immediately while hot and flavorful.
Serving Suggestion: Pair this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices or serve it over a bed of pasta for a more substantial meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a tapas spread.
Tips for Making It Better
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Experiment with Mushrooms: Try different types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms for varied textures and flavors.
- Add Wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic for an added layer of complexity.
- Include Herbs: Along with parsley, experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aroma and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Always cook mushrooms in a single layer to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.
- Burning the Garlic: Sauté garlic on medium heat and keep an eye on it to prevent it from turning bitter.
- Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a more intense flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Ignoring Moisture: Mushrooms release a lot of water as they cook. Let them cook long enough to evaporate this moisture for a better texture.
Conclusion
The combination of earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan creates a harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
This dish is incredibly versatile, serving well as an appetizer, side, or main course. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.
The recipe allows for creativity with additional ingredients, ensuring it can be tailored to personal tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of mushrooms, such as their high nutrient content and low-calorie profile, making it both a delicious and nutritious choice.
