Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms

In the realm of comfort foods, there’s a special place for dishes that combine simplicity with a depth of flavor. One such dish is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a side dish that could easily steal the spotlight. Perfect alongside a hearty main or as a satisfying vegetarian option, its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors promise to delight your palate. Let’s delve into this exquisite recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also remarkably versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup fresh grated Cello parmesan cheese, divided (¾ cup and ¼ cup for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
• Additional chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions to Creamy Perfection:

1. Start with the Base: In a large cast-iron skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. This combination ensures that your mushrooms are beautifully browned without the butter burning.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them until they’re tender and have taken on a gorgeous golden color. This usually takes about 15 minutes. The key here is to let the mushrooms release their moisture and become infused with the garlic’s aroma.
3. Seasoning: Sprinkle the mushrooms with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. The thyme adds a layer of earthy flavor that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in milk and pour this mixture into the skillet. Stir well until the sauce begins to thicken. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Introduce the heavy whipping cream, ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and, if you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes. Add in some fresh thyme sprigs for an extra burst of flavor. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue stirring until the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce. Remember to remove the thyme sprigs before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the mushrooms are beautifully coated in the creamy sauce, serve them hot. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a visually appealing and flavorful finish.

Prep and Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms are not just a side dish; they’re a statement of flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious, comforting dish, this recipe is a must-try. Its elegance lies in its simplicity, allowing each ingredient to shine. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread, a succulent steak, or enjoy it as a rich vegetarian main. The possibilities are endless, and the outcome is always delectably satisfying.

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