Get ready for the most intoxicating aroma to fill your home! These Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Mushrooms are the definition of effortless elegance. As they gently simmer in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs, they become incredibly tender and flavorful. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect as a sophisticated side dish for steak or chicken, a standout appetizer, or a stunning addition to any holiday buffet table.
Ingredients
• 24 oz / 680 g cremini (baby bella) or white button mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¾ cup / 180 ml chicken broth
• 6 tbsp / 85 g butter, cut into small cubes
• ¼ cup / 60 ml heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp minced fresh flat-leaf parsley or oregano, for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine the trimmed mushrooms, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and cubed butter in a medium slow cooker. Stir gently to mix.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or until the mushrooms are tender and have released their natural juices.
3. Stir in the heavy whipping cream until well combined.
4. Cover and continue to cook on LOW for an additional 15 minutes, or just until the sauce is heated through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano just before serving.
Nutritional Information
• PER SERVING: 166 CALORIES ★ FAT 16 G (87%) ★ NET CARBS 4 G (10%) ★ PROTEIN 4 G (10%)
Pro Tips
• Use whole mushrooms. Avoid pre-slicing the mushrooms, as whole cremini or button mushrooms hold their shape and texture much better during the slow cooking process.
• For a thicker sauce, create a slurry by whisking 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the slow cooker along with the cream and cook on HIGH for 15 minutes until thickened.
• Add a splash of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or sherry along with the chicken broth to add another layer of complex, savory flavor.
• To make this a main course, serve the mushrooms and their creamy sauce over grilled steak, seared chicken breasts, or toss with cooked pasta or gnocchi.
FAQ
Q: Should I slice the mushrooms before cooking
A: No, it is best to use whole mushrooms for this recipe. Whole cremini or button mushrooms hold their shape and texture much better during the slow cooking process, preventing them from becoming overly soft or mushy.
Q: How can I make the garlic herb sauce thicker
A: To create a thicker sauce, make a slurry by whisking 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker along with the heavy cream and cook on HIGH for 15 minutes until it thickens.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with an equal amount of vegetable broth. The flavor will be just as rich and savory.
Q: What can I serve with these garlic herb mushrooms
A: These mushrooms are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side dish with steak or chicken, as an appetizer with crusty bread, or turn them into a main course by tossing them with pasta or gnocchi.
