Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms, a dish that’s perfect as a side or a hearty topping for meats and pasta. This recipe combines earthy mushrooms with a luscious, creamy sauce that’s bursting with garlic and Parmesan. Here’s how to make it:

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🛒 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in cooking the mushrooms and garlic without burning.
• 8 ounces white mushrooms: Choose between whole or sliced, based on your preference.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds extra creaminess and helps bind the sauce together.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Enhances the overall flavor with herbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the dish to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle heat and balances the flavors.
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a touch of color and freshness.

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Start with Sautéing

• Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet: Use medium heat to create a flavorful base.
• Add mushrooms and garlic: Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and infused with garlic’s aroma, about 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms should be golden and have released their moisture.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the mushrooms brown evenly rather than steaming.

2. Craft the Creamy Sauce

• Introduce heavy cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese to the skillet: Stir these ingredients into the mushrooms, allowing them to melt and combine into a rich, creamy sauce.
• Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: Stir until the seasoning is well incorporated and the sauce is smooth. The cream cheese should be fully melted, blending seamlessly with the cream and Parmesan.

Pro Tip: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer gently until it reduces slightly. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

3. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh parsley: Adds a vibrant color and a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy the mushrooms while they are still warm and the sauce is bubbly and smooth.

Pro Tip: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or as a topping for steak.

⏲️ Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 as a side dish

🍴 Tips and Variations

1. Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to mix different types of mushrooms such as cremini or shiitake for added depth of flavor.
2. Adding Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or bacon bits for a heartier dish.
3. Herb Variations: Swap out dried Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
4. Texture: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it briefly with an immersion blender to make it creamy and homogeneous.
5. Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent separating.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms are the perfect side dish or topping for a variety of meals. With a rich and flavorful sauce combining the sharpness of Parmesan and the smoothness of cream cheese, these mushrooms are sure to elevate any dining experience. Enjoy this indulgent, creamy dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious!