Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve never had the pleasure of digging into a warm bowl of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms, you’re in for a flavorful adventure. The rich aroma of garlic blending with the earthy goodness of mushrooms is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I remember the first time I made this dish for a family get-together. My aunt, a self-proclaimed mushroom enthusiast, declared it the best side dish of the evening. I think I might have even seen her try to sneak a few leftovers into her purse—might want to take that as a compliment!
These mushrooms are super easy to whip up, requiring very little effort with the help of a trusty crockpot. It’s that kind of recipe that doesn’t just bring comfort, but also brings memories. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or having a casual get-together with friends. Plus, they’re stuffed with flavor, making them perfect for impressing guests or just indulging yourself.
What’s in Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms?
Let’s break down the ingredients, shall we? This is where the magic really happens!
Fresh Mushrooms: I love using cremini or baby bella mushrooms for their robust flavor, but really, feel free to mix it up with your favorites! Just make sure they’re cleaned and sliced to perfection.
Unsalted Butter: The base for that incredible garlic concoction. Unsalted allows you to control the salt levels just how you like it.
Garlic: Four cloves should do the trick! You get that beautiful aroma and flavor when you sauté it with the butter—heavenly.
Dried Thyme & Rosemary: These herbs add a lovely depth of flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use those!
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that really bring out the best in the mushrooms.
Parmesan Cheese: The pièce de résistance! This provides a creamy, savory layer that makes the mushrooms absolutely irresistible.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this aromatic herb not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness to each bite.
Is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects, shall we?
Mushrooms: These little powerhouses are low in calories and a great source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and selenium. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants!
Garlic: Known for its immunity-boosting properties, garlic is not only tasty but can do wonders for your health. Just make sure not to burn it while cooking!
Parmesan Cheese: While it does add richness and flavor, remember it’s a bit higher in fat. Enjoy it in moderation, and don’t beat yourself up for wanting those cheesy goodness vibes!
So, yes! This dish can definitely be part of a balanced diet, especially if you pair it with some lean protein or delicious greens.
Ingredients
To whip up about 4 servings of these mouthwatering mushrooms, here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 pound (450g) fresh mushrooms (cremini or baby bella), cleaned and sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms?
Ready to get cooking? Let’s do this step by step!
1. **Prep the Mushrooms**: First things first! Clean those mushrooms; if they’re dirty from the store, a quick rinse under running water works wonders. Slice them into thick pieces—about 1/4 inch thick.
2. **Prepare the Garlic Butter**: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Toss in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, letting it cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant (but do take care not to burn that lovely garlic!).
3. **Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot**: Grab your sliced mushrooms and place them in your crockpot. Pour that glorious garlic butter mixture over them, making sure they’re well-coated. Season with salt and pepper and mix it all up gently.
4. **Cook the Mushrooms**: Pop the lid on your crockpot! Cook on low for 3-4 hours or crank it up to high for 1.5-2 hours, until those mushrooms get super tender and release their juices. Give them a stir every now and then to ensure even cooking.
5. **Add Parmesan Cheese**: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle that grated Parmesan cheese over the mushrooms. Cover it again so it can melt into a creamy, cheesy delight.
6. **Garnish and Serve**: Once it’s all cooked and cheesy, give the mushrooms a gentle stir. Serve them warm in a beautiful bowl, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and watch them disappear!
Delicious Tips for Serving!
These mushrooms are so versatile! Serve them alongside roasted meats for a delicious pairing, or use them as a topping for creamy mashed potatoes and watch the smiles shine! They also make a fantastic festive dish for holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving. Just imagine them making your dining table look all cozy and inviting!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking, perhaps adding some crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy.
Trust me when I say, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your cooking repertoire. So give it a whirl, my friend! And when you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
