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These Steakhouse Garlic Butter Mushrooms are my answer to elevating any dinner in just about twenty minutes. Rich garlic, creamy melted butter, and those golden meaty bites of mushroom make this a forever favorite for special occasions or just sprucing up a simple weekday meal.
The first time I made this as a holiday side the platter disappeared faster than the main course. Now it is the side dish everyone expects at Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
- White button mushrooms: Fresh and firm mushrooms soak up flavor and keep their texture
- Butter: Choose unsalted for better control of seasoning and always check for a creamy hue
- Garlic: Go with plump fresh cloves for the brightest aroma
- Worcestershire sauce: This little splash brings out deep umami richness
- Soy sauce: Adds even more savory heft and complexity
- Oregano: Choose dried for concentration or fresh for brighter notes
- Tarragon: Adds gentle anise flavor but use sparingly for balance
- Paprika: Smoked or sweet both work for subtle warmth and color
- Black pepper: Fresh ground really gives the best bite
- Chili powder: Optional if you want a gentle tingle
- Fresh parsley or chives: For a sharp green finish and pop of color
- Salt: Taste before adding sometimes soy and Worcestershire are enough
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Wipe each mushroom with a damp paper towel so no grit remains and slice each about half an inch thick. This keeps them meaty not mushy when cooked.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Set a large skillet over medium high heat and melt half your butter swirling it all over the pan. Drop in your mushroom slices so every piece touches the pan. Cook four to five minutes flipping so both sides become golden and concentrated. Take your time so all moisture evaporates.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Turn the heat to medium and add the remaining butter letting it coat everything. Toss in your minced garlic cooking just until fragrant but still pale. Now stir in Worcestershire sauce soy oregano tarragon paprika black pepper and if using chili powder. Mix well so all mushrooms are slicked in the savory sauce. Let this bubble gently for two to three minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Pile everything onto a platter then scatter with chopped parsley or chives. Serve right away. The aroma always draws a crowd before you even leave the kitchen.
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Garlic is honestly my favorite part here. My youngest always tries to pick out every glistening bit of garlic and even asks for extra on top. Some dishes just spark those sweet kitchen memories.
Storage Tips
Store leftover mushrooms with their sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat use a skillet over low heat while stirring often so the butter melts back into a glossy sauce without getting greasy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use cremini or even portobello mushrooms for this recipe and both bring a firmer texture that stands up to strong garlic flavor. For a different spin try swapping tarragon for thyme or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar instead of Worcestershire.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these mushrooms over steak let them spill over creamy polenta or tuck them inside a warm sandwich. For a vegetarian meal I sometimes serve them with roasted potatoes and a handful of greens.
Cultural and Historical Context
Classic steakhouses made garlic butter mushrooms famous as a simple but luxurious side. The combination of butter and umami rich mushrooms dates back to French and Italian kitchens but this steakhouse version brings a dose of American comfort.
Recipe Questions
- → How can I prevent mushrooms from becoming soggy?
Cook mushrooms in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps them brown rather than steam and keeps their texture firm.
- → What other mushrooms work well in this dish?
Cremini or portobello mushrooms are excellent alternatives, providing a meatier bite and more robust flavor than white buttons.
- → When should I add the garlic?
Stir in garlic after browning the mushrooms to maximize its flavor and prevent burning during cooking.
- → Can I adjust the herbs to my preference?
Absolutely. Substitute oregano and tarragon with thyme, rosemary, or basil for a custom herbal touch.
- → What dishes pair well with these mushrooms?
They complement grilled steaks, roast chicken, risotto, or serve as a topping on toast for a light meal.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace butter with a quality olive oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative.