Are you looking for a savory side dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines tender mushrooms with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re serving it alongside a steak, as a topping for pasta, or simply as a delightful appetizer, these mushrooms are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 grams) of fresh mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and slice them evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
- Add Garlic: Push the mushrooms to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the empty side and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir the garlic into the mushrooms.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mushrooms and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh mushrooms rather than canned.
- Adjust Cream Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the cream simmer for a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or additional cream.
- Enhance Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a wide range of main dishes, from grilled meats to pasta.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms are a fantastic way to elevate any meal with minimal effort. Their rich flavor and creamy texture make them a versatile and crowd-pleasing side dish. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who might also appreciate this savory treat!
Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
Serving Tips
- As a Side Dish: These mushrooms make a fantastic side dish for various main courses. Pair them with steak, chicken, or pork for a rich and flavorful complement.
- Over Pasta: Serve the creamy mushrooms over your favorite pasta for a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal. They work particularly well with fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti.
- On a Salad: Add a handful of these mushrooms to a green salad or a grain bowl to enhance your meal with extra flavor and creaminess.
- As an Appetizer: Serve these mushrooms in small bowls or ramekins as a tasty appetizer at your next gathering. They’re perfect for dipping crusty bread or pita chips.
- Garnishing: For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like thyme or basil over the mushrooms just before serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover creamy garlic Parmesan mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the mushrooms gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be sure to do so in short intervals to prevent overheating.
- Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze creamy mushrooms, the texture of the mushrooms and sauce may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, place them in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid cooking the mushrooms for too long as they can become mushy. Aim to heat them just until warmed through.
- Freshening Up: If the sauce thickens too much after storing, you can stir in a bit of milk or cream to bring it back to its original creamy texture.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms at their best, whether fresh out of the pan or as a tasty leftover treat.
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that each cheese will bring its unique taste to the dish, so choose one that complements your overall meal.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk or cream alternative, such as almond milk, coconut cream, or cashew cream. For a lower-fat option, use half-and-half or a light cream instead of heavy cream. Be aware that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the dish.
3. Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms, or should I slice them myself?
Pre-sliced mushrooms are convenient and can be used in this recipe. However, slicing your own mushrooms ensures they are cut to your preferred thickness and may result in a slightly better texture and flavor. Freshly sliced mushrooms also have a better chance of being more evenly cooked.
4. How can I make this dish spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the mushrooms while cooking. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that the spice level will increase as the dish simmers.