Better Than Fries: Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Bylina

Yes, you read that right — better than fries. Once you try these Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms, you may never look at fries the same way again. Golden, savory, garlicky, and packed with umami flavor, these mushrooms are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and totally addictive.

They’re the perfect snack, side dish, or even a low-carb appetizer that feels indulgent but is actually lighter than most fried sides. Plus, the air fryer means less oil and more flavor in every bite. Let’s turn mushrooms into the star of your plate.

Why You’ll Be Obsessed

  • Crispy, buttery, garlicky goodness
  • Ready in 15 minutes
  • Low-carb, keto-friendly, and naturally gluten-free
  • One bowl, one air fryer — no mess!

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms (baby bella or cremini are best)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or parsley
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
  • A squeeze of lemon (optional, for brightness)

Quick How-To

1. Prep the Mushrooms
Wipe the mushrooms clean and cut them in half (or quarters if they’re large). Don’t soak them — they’ll absorb water and lose that crisp texture.

2. Mix Up the Flavor Bomb
In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss the mushrooms in until every piece is coated.

3. Air Fry Like a Pro
Pop the mushrooms into your air fryer basket (don’t crowd them). Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

4. Garnish and Go
Sprinkle with Parmesan, a little more chopped herbs, and a squeeze of lemon if you want. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crisp.

Dipping Sauce Ideas (Because Why Not?)

  • Garlic aioli
  • Ranch dressing
  • Spicy sriracha mayo
  • Herbed Greek yogurt

Serving Suggestions

These are amazing:

  • As a side to steak, grilled chicken, or burgers
  • Tossed into a salad or grain bowl
  • Served as a fun low-carb appetizer at your next get-together

Why They Really Are Better Than Fries

Let’s be honest — fries are great. But these garlic butter mushrooms bring all the crispy satisfaction of fries with:

  • Less grease
  • More flavor complexity
  • A rich, buttery garlic coating
  • That juicy bite inside every mushroom

They’re also easier to make (no soaking or slicing potatoes) and far more versatile when it comes to flavor.

Final Bite

Crispy. Garlicky. Juicy. These Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms are your new go-to side dish or snack. Whether you’re trying to cut carbs, add more veggies, or just switch things up, they deliver all the satisfaction of fries — and then some.

One bite and you’ll be saying: fries, who?