Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Name: Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh mushrooms (cremini or button); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making garlic butter mushrooms because they are such a simple yet flavorful side dish. Whenever I prepare them, the rich aroma of garlic wafts through the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. These mushrooms are not just easy to whip up but also pair perfectly with just about any main course. Whether served with steak, chicken, or pasta, they truly elevate the entire meal. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, so I can make them anytime I have a craving for something savory and delicious!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:04:34.804Z

When I first discovered garlic butter mushrooms, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The first time I made them, I followed a simple method—starting with fresh mushrooms sautéed in a delightful mixture of garlic and butter. The magic happens when the mushrooms soak up all that buttery goodness, creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying.

One essential tip I learned over time is to avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing the mushrooms. This ensures they caramelize beautifully instead of steaming, resulting in that exquisite flavor we all crave. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly buttery with a rich garlic boost
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Perfectly complements a variety of main dishes

Mushroom Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right mushrooms is crucial for achieving the best flavor in garlic butter mushrooms. Cremini and button mushrooms are both excellent choices, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for a different texture and taste. When preparing your mushrooms, it’s important to clean them without soaking them in water, as they are like sponges and can absorb excess moisture, which makes sautéing less effective. A damp cloth or a soft brush works best to remove any dirt.

Once cleaned, slicing the mushrooms evenly ensures they cook uniformly, achieving that desired golden-brown finish. Aim for slices about a quarter-inch thick; this thickness allows for a good balance of tenderness and caramelization. If you want a firmer bite, leave them slightly thicker, but keep an eye on the cooking time as this will impact how quickly they soften.

Mastering the Garlic Butter Technique

The technique of sautéing garlic in butter is key to infusing the mushrooms with flavor. Start with medium heat to melt the butter so it doesn’t burn, which would create a bitter taste. It's important to monitor the garlic closely—once it’s fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, it's time to add the mushrooms. This typically takes about one minute, so don’t walk away! If garlic begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low instantly.

The butter not only provides rich flavor but also moisture, helping to create a glossy finish on the mushrooms. As they cook, they will release their own moisture, allowing the garlic butter to coat them beautifully. If desired, you can add a splash of white wine after the mushrooms have released their moisture for an acidity that brightens the dish, complementing the richness of the butter.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make mouthwatering garlic butter mushrooms:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh mushrooms (cremini or button)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have these ingredients ready, you can start bringing these flavors together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious garlic butter mushrooms:

Prepare the Mushrooms

Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and slice them evenly for cooking.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and tender.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, and serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Enjoy these savory mushrooms with your favorite dishes!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store garlic butter mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat; this helps to prevent them from becoming rubbery. You can add a tiny bit of butter or olive oil to get them sizzling again without losing their delicious flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked mushrooms. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to three months. When ready to use, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen, adjusting the heat and timing accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garlic butter mushrooms are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic side dish for steak, chicken, or fish, but you can also serve them atop creamy polenta or toss them through pasta for a hearty vegetarian option. A sprinkle of cheese, like parmesan, right before serving can add an extra layer of richness and flavor that complements the garlic butter perfectly.

If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the cooking process or a handful of spinach towards the end for a pop of color and nutrients. You can also spice things up by incorporating red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or switching out the parsley for fresh thyme or chives for a different herb profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen mushrooms?

While fresh mushrooms are best for this recipe, you can use frozen mushrooms if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

→ What types of mushrooms work best?

Cremini and button mushrooms are fantastic choices, but feel free to experiment with others like shiitake or portobello!

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best to serve garlic butter mushrooms fresh for the best texture, but you can prepare the mushrooms and garlic mixture ahead of time and sauté just before serving.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.