Mushroom Garlic Parmesan

### Instructions: How to Make Mushroom Garlic Parmesan

#### 1. **Prepare the Mushrooms**
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice the mushrooms evenly, ensuring they cook at the same rate. If you’re using larger mushrooms like cremini or portobello, you may want to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.

#### 2. **Heat the Olive Oil**
Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Let them cook for about **5-7 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms start to release their moisture and become golden brown.

#### 3. **Sauté the Garlic**
Once the mushrooms are browned and have softened, push them to the side of the skillet. Add the **minced garlic** into the empty space in the pan. Sauté the garlic for **1-2 minutes**, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. The garlic should become aromatic but not browned.

#### 4. **Combine Ingredients**
Stir the garlic into the mushrooms, allowing the flavors to meld together. At this point, you can add the **butter** if you prefer a richer flavor. Stir until the butter has melted and everything is well combined.

#### 5. **Add Parmesan**
Sprinkle the **parmesan cheese** over the mushrooms and garlic. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and coats the mushrooms. The cheese will create a creamy, savory sauce that binds the dish together.

#### 6. **Season to Taste**
Season the dish with **salt and pepper** to taste. You can also add a pinch of **dried thyme** for extra flavor if you like. Continue to stir the mixture for another minute or so until the cheese is fully incorporated and the mushrooms are tender.

#### 7. **Garnish and Serve**
Once the mushrooms are cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the dish with **chopped fresh parsley** for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm!

### Tips for Making the Perfect Mushroom Garlic Parmesan

1. **Choose the Right Mushrooms**: While white button mushrooms are the most common choice, you can experiment with other types of mushrooms like **cremini** or **shiitake** for different flavors and textures. The key is to use fresh mushrooms for the best taste and texture.

2. **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: To ensure the mushrooms cook evenly and brown nicely, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If necessary, cook the mushrooms in batches, adding more olive oil as needed.

3. **Use Freshly Grated Parmesan**: For the best flavor and meltability, use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than the pre-grated version. Fresh parmesan will melt more smoothly and create a creamier texture.

4. **Add a Splash of Cream**: For an extra creamy, indulgent version of this dish, add a splash of **heavy cream** or **cream cheese** toward the end of cooking. This will make the mushrooms even richer and create a luscious sauce.

5. **Serve Over Pasta or Rice**: For a complete meal, serve the mushroom garlic parmesan on top of **pasta**, **risotto**, or **rice**. The creamy, cheesy mushrooms will elevate any dish.

6. **Add a Protein**: If you want to turn this into a main course, you can pair the mushrooms with a protein like **grilled chicken**, **steak**, or **shrimp**. The garlic parmesan flavor complements meats beautifully.

### Why This Mushroom Garlic Parmesan Recipe is So Special

– **Simple Yet Flavorful**: With just a few basic ingredients, this dish delivers big flavor. The garlic provides a savory base, while the parmesan cheese gives it richness and depth.

– **Quick and Easy**: In just 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful, comforting dish ready to serve. This makes it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a quick appetizer.

– **Healthy and Satisfying**: Mushrooms are low in calories, packed with nutrients, and have a meaty texture, making them a great substitute for meat in various dishes. This recipe is naturally low in carbs and can be enjoyed by those following keto or gluten-free diets.

– **Versatile**: This dish works as a side, an appetizer, or even a topping for other dishes like pasta or pizza. It can easily be adapted to suit your taste, so feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings.

### Conclusion

**Mushroom Garlic Parmesan** is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves savory, cheesy dishes. The combination of tender mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and rich parmesan cheese makes for an incredibly satisfying dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a comforting meal, this recipe is perfect for all occasions. Try it today and enjoy the delightful flavors of this simple yet indulgent treat!