Mushroom Garlic Parmesan is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or a main course. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and creamy mushrooms creates a rich and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Mushroom Garlic Parmesan, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces whole bella mushrooms
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
- Clean and Slice Mushrooms:
- Clean the bella mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Slice them into thick pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Heat Butter and Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and hot.
- Sauté Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add Heavy Cream:
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Stir to combine.
- Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan:
- Add the softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season and Thicken:
- Add the onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the Mushroom Garlic Parmesan with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a side dish or over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Mushrooms: Baby bella mushrooms are recommended for their flavor, but you can use other varieties like white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and mushrooms for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms:
- Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms:
- Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese to 1/2 cup for an extra cheesy dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. The sauce may be slightly less thick but still delicious.
2. How do I store leftover Mushroom Garlic Parmesan?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to the cream and cheese, which may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
4. What can I serve with Mushroom Garlic Parmesan?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or as a topping for grilled chicken or steak. It’s also delicious served with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Romano for a different flavor profile.
Mushroom Garlic Parmesan is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy sauce and savory mushrooms, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Mushroom Garlic Parmesan recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful meal. Happy cooking!