Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms – A Savory, Flavorful Side Dish

Bylina

When it comes to quick and delicious side dishes, Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms are a total game-changer. With the perfect balance of rich garlic butter, fresh herbs, and earthy mushrooms, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in minutes! Using an air fryer helps achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy — the perfect combination for mushroom lovers.

This easy recipe is great for a weeknight dinner, special occasions, or as a tasty topping for steaks, pasta, or even salads. Let’s dive into the simplicity of making these savory mushrooms in an air fryer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute side dish.
  • Full of Flavor: Garlic butter, herbs, and mushrooms combine to create a delicious bite every time.
  • Healthy: The air fryer uses less oil, making it a lighter option for a tasty treat.
  • Versatile: Perfect on its own or as an addition to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms (baby bella, cremini, or white mushrooms)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice the mushrooms into halves or quarters, depending on their size. If they’re small, you can leave them whole, but cutting them into smaller pieces helps them cook evenly and allows for more flavor absorption.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Mushrooms
Place the sliced mushrooms in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the mushrooms and toss them gently to coat every piece.

Step 4: Air Fry the Mushrooms
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the garlic butter mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The mushrooms should be golden brown and crispy on the edges, but still tender inside.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the mushrooms are done, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish. For extra flavor, sprinkle the mushrooms with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips for the Best Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure the mushrooms are in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking.
  • Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms will cook better than canned mushrooms. Choose a variety like baby bella, cremini, or white mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
  • For Extra Crispiness: If you like your mushrooms extra crispy, you can give them a quick broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes after air frying.

Serving Suggestions

These Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms make the perfect side dish to any meal. Try serving them with:

  • Steak or Grilled Chicken: The garlic butter complements the rich flavors of meat dishes.
  • Pasta: Toss them with your favorite pasta for added texture and flavor.
  • Salads: Add them to a salad for a savory crunch.

Final Thoughts

These Air-Fryer Garlic Butter Mushrooms are a simple yet irresistible way to elevate any meal. With minimal ingredients and a quick cook time, you can have a flavorful side dish ready in just minutes. Whether you enjoy them on their own or as a topping for other dishes, these mushrooms are sure to impress!