Air Fryer Mushrooms are undeniably one of the simplest yet most satisfying side dishes you can whip up in minutes. Transform humble mushrooms into a culinary delight that is buttery, garlicky, and cooked to absolute perfection. Whether you’re in a rush or simply looking for a flavorful, foolproof addition to your dinner, these air-fried mushrooms are the answer.

“Buttery, garlicky, and done in minutes, these air fryer mushrooms are the perfect side dish to upgrade any meal. They are so incredibly versatile and always come out perfectly tender with a delightful crisp edge.”

-Becky

These savory garlic butter mushrooms are incredibly versatile, serving beautifully as a quick side dish, an elegant meal topper, or a satisfying snack all on their own. You can opt for a minimalist approach, seasoning them simply with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, or elevate them to “restaurant style” by adding gourmet touches like balsamic glaze, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a medley of fresh herbs. Regardless of your chosen seasoning, these mushrooms consistently deliver an amazing burst of flavor and a tender, juicy texture.

The beauty of these air fryer mushrooms lies in their ability to complement a wide array of main courses. They are an ideal companion for simple yet delicious dinners such as Air Fryer Chicken Breast, a succulent Air Fryer Ribeye Steak, or a flaky Air Fryer Salmon. Their rich, earthy flavor also makes them a fantastic topping for juicy Air Fryer Hamburgers or a perfectly cooked Smoked Chicken Breast, adding an extra layer of gourmet taste to your everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Mushrooms

Air frying mushrooms offers numerous advantages over traditional cooking methods. The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy, something that can be harder to achieve with pan-frying or roasting without excess oil. This method also significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier option for enjoying your favorite fungi. Plus, the speed and convenience of the air fryer mean you can have a gourmet-tasting side dish on your table in under 15 minutes, including prep time!

Beyond being a healthy and quick option, air fryer mushrooms are incredibly versatile. They soak up flavors beautifully, making them an excellent canvas for various seasonings and additions. From a simple garlic butter classic to more elaborate gourmet preparations, these mushrooms are sure to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients You Will Need

Creating these delectable air fryer mushrooms requires just a few basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. The quality of your ingredients, especially the mushrooms, will significantly impact the final flavor and texture.

• Mushrooms: The star of our show! You have several fantastic options here.
  • White Button Mushrooms: Mild in flavor, readily available, and great for soaking up seasonings.
  • Cremini Mushrooms (Baby Bella Mushrooms): These are young Portobello mushrooms. They have a richer, earthier flavor and firmer texture than white button mushrooms, making them a popular choice for cooking.
  • Portobello Mushrooms: Larger and meatier, these are excellent for slicing into thick pieces for a more substantial bite.

  Look for mushrooms that are firm, plump, and free of dark spots or sliminess.

• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: This is key for achieving that golden-brown exterior and adding richness.
  • Olive Oil: A classic choice that imparts a subtle fruity note and helps with crisping.
  • Melted Butter: For an incredibly rich, decadent, and traditional garlic butter flavor.

  You can also use a combination of both for the best of both worlds.

• Garlic: The essential aromatic that elevates these mushrooms.
  • Fresh Minced Garlic: Provides the most potent and authentic garlic flavor. About 1-2 cloves per pound of mushrooms is a good starting point.
  • Garlic Powder: A convenient alternative that distributes evenly. Use about ½ teaspoon per pound.
• Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the mushrooms. Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best taste.
• Optional Enhancements: These additions allow for endless customization.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick, especially when sprinkled on hot mushrooms.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint that pairs wonderfully with earthy mushrooms.
  • Soy Sauce: A touch of umami depth for an Asian-inspired twist.
  • Chopped Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, or chives can add brightness and a gourmet touch.

A full list of ingredients with precise measurements is conveniently included in the recipe card below.

Flavorful Variations

While the classic garlic butter air fryer mushrooms are delicious on their own, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor profiles to suit your taste or complement your meal. Here are some exciting variations to try:

• Cheesy Herb Mushrooms: For a burst of savory goodness, sprinkle your hot air-fried mushrooms generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving. The cheese will melt slightly, creating an irresistible coating. Other great herbs to try include fresh thyme or rosemary.
• Balsamic Glazed Mushrooms: For a sophisticated sweet and tangy finish, drizzle a high-quality balsamic glaze over the mushrooms immediately after they come out of the air fryer. The heat will slightly warm the glaze, allowing it to coat the mushrooms beautifully. You can even reduce balsamic vinegar on the stovetop to make your own glaze for an extra touch.
• Crispy Panko Mushrooms: Achieve an extra layer of crunch by lightly coating your seasoned mushrooms in panko breadcrumbs before air frying. The panko will turn golden and crisp in the air fryer, adding a delightful texture contrast. To help the panko adhere, you might want to lightly toss the mushrooms with an egg wash or a tiny bit more oil before coating.
• Spicy Garlic Mushrooms: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, salt, and pepper before air frying. For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce after cooking can be a game-changer.
• Asian-Inspired Mushrooms: For an umami-rich twist, swap some of the olive oil for a tablespoon of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) and a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil. You can also add a sprinkle of ginger powder or a bit of grated fresh ginger to the mix. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions after cooking.
• Lemon Herb Mushrooms: Brighten up your mushrooms with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after air frying, along with a blend of your favorite fresh herbs like dill, oregano, or a mix of Italian herbs. The citrus adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness.

Looking to explore even more exciting ways to prepare mushrooms in your air fryer? You absolutely have to try these Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms, perfect as an appetizer, or these deliciously crunchy Air Fryer Fried Mushrooms for a different texture experience.

How to Make Mushrooms in the Air Fryer: Step-by-Step Guide

Making delicious air fryer mushrooms is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, flavorful fungi every time.

1. Clean and Prep Mushrooms: Begin by gently cleaning your mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel or a soft mushroom brush to wipe away any dirt. It’s best not to soak them as mushrooms absorb water easily, which can make them soggy when cooked. After cleaning, pat them completely dry. If using larger varieties like Portobello or large cremini, slice them into even pieces for uniform cooking. Smaller button or cremini mushrooms can be left whole.

2. Season the Mushrooms: Transfer the cleaned and dried mushrooms to a medium-sized bowl. Add your choice of olive oil or melted butter, along with fresh minced garlic (or garlic powder), salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring each mushroom is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step is crucial for developing that rich, savory flavor.

3. Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for instant crisping. Once preheated, transfer the seasoned mushrooms to the air fryer basket. It is vital to arrange the mushrooms in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket, as this will steam the mushrooms instead of air frying them, preventing them from getting beautifully golden and slightly crispy. If necessary, cook them in multiple batches.

4. Air Fry to Perfection: Air fry the mushrooms at 400°F (205°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time (around the 3-minute mark), give the basket a good shake or use tongs to flip the mushrooms. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. Continue cooking until they are golden brown, tender on the inside, and have a slightly caramelized exterior. If your mushrooms are larger, they might need an extra minute or two.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

Achieving perfectly air-fried mushrooms is simple with a few insider tricks. These tips will help you maximize flavor and texture every time you make this recipe.

• Adjust for Mushroom Size: Not all mushrooms are created equal. Larger mushrooms, whether whole or thicker slices, will require an extra minute or two of cook time to become fully tender and beautifully browned. Always assess the size of your mushrooms and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Pat Mushrooms Completely Dry: This step is non-negotiable for success! After cleaning your mushrooms, use paper towels to thoroughly pat them dry. Any excess moisture will cause them to steam in the air fryer rather than beautifully brown and crisp. Dry mushrooms are the secret to that coveted caramelized texture.
• Use Room Temperature Mushrooms: Just like with many other ingredients, mushrooms at room temperature tend to cook more evenly. If your mushrooms are straight from the fridge, let them sit on the counter for about 15-20 minutes before prepping them.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: This is arguably the most crucial tip for air frying anything, especially mushrooms. For optimal crispiness and even cooking, ensure the mushrooms are arranged in a single layer with a bit of space between them. Overcrowding traps moisture and leads to steaming, resulting in soggy, rather than crispy, mushrooms. Cook in batches if necessary, it’s worth the extra minute!
• Don’t Over-Season Initially: Mushrooms shrink as they cook, concentrating flavors. It’s often better to under-season slightly with salt and pepper before cooking and then taste and adjust after they are done. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Shake or Flip Halfway: To ensure all sides of your mushrooms get exposure to the hot circulating air, give the air fryer basket a good shake or use tongs to flip them halfway through the cooking process. This promotes even browning and texture.
• Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly: While not directly related to cooking the mushrooms, keeping your air fryer clean ensures efficient operation and prevents unwanted smoke or smells from previous cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer mushrooms are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways to enhance your meals. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve them alongside your favorite proteins like grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or roasted fish. Their rich flavor complements almost any main course.
• Meal Topper: Elevate simple dishes by adding a generous spoonful of these mushrooms. They’re fantastic on pasta, risotto, polenta, or even scrambled eggs and omelets for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
• Appetizer or Snack: Serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks for an easy and healthy appetizer. They’re also delicious as a light, savory snack all on their own.
• Salad Boost: Add them to a green salad for an extra layer of flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Incorporate them into sandwiches, wraps, or even homemade pizzas for an earthy, umami kick.
• Stir-Fries: While they are air-fried, they can still be added to stir-fries at the end of cooking for added texture and flavor without making the dish watery.

Air Fryer Mushroom FAQ’s

4.60 from 20 votes

Servings: 4

Air Fryer Mushrooms

By Becky

This Air Fryer Mushrooms Recipe is incredibly delicious, unbelievably easy to make, and perfect for any meal. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a perfectly seasoned and tender side dish, a savory snack, or an excellent topping for your favorite main courses.

Prep: 3 minutes mins

Cook: 7 minutes mins

Total: 10 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Air Fryer (basket style or oven style)
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Tongs (for shaking/flipping)

Ingredients

• ▢ 16 ounces fresh mushrooms, white button, cremini, or baby Bella, sliced or whole if small
• ▢ 3 tablespoons olive oil , or melted butter (or a mix)
• ▢ 1 clove fresh garlic, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ Optional: Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish

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Instructions

• Prepare Mushrooms: Gently clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp paper towel or a soft mushroom brush to remove any dirt or residue. Avoid soaking as mushrooms absorb water easily. After cleaning, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
• Slice if Needed: If you are using larger mushrooms (like cremini or Portobello), slice them into even pieces, about ½ to ¾ inch thick, and remove any tough stems. If you’re using small button or cremini mushrooms, you can leave them whole. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
• Season: Place the cleaned and prepped mushrooms in a medium bowl. Add the olive oil or melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together vigorously until all the mushrooms are thoroughly and evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
• Preheat & Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3-5 minutes. Once heated, transfer the seasoned mushrooms to the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Overcrowding can lead to steaming, which prevents browning. If necessary, cook the mushrooms in two or more batches.
• Air Fry: Air fry the mushrooms at 400°F (205°C) for 5-7 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 3-minute mark), shake the basket well or flip the mushrooms with tongs to ensure even cooking and browning. Continue cooking until they are golden brown, tender, and have a slightly crispy texture. Add an extra minute or two if your mushrooms are particularly large or if you prefer them crispier.
• Serve: Once done air frying, transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish. Taste and add any additional seasonings if desired. You can also elevate them further by topping them with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of onion powder, or a dash of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives. Enjoy immediately!

Video Tutorial

Notes

• Pat mushrooms completely dry: This is a critical step for crispy mushrooms! Don’t skip this when you prep the mushrooms. Removing any excess moisture will help them brown and caramelize instead of steaming, ensuring a perfect texture.
• Use room temperature mushrooms: For the most even cooking, try to use mushrooms that aren’t ice cold from the fridge. Allowing them to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking helps them cook more uniformly.
• Avoid overcrowding: A single layer in the air fryer basket is essential. This allows the hot air to circulate freely around each mushroom, helping them to crisp up beautifully and encouraging the butter or oil to caramelize. If your air fryer is small, work in batches.
• Adjust for size: Keep in mind that larger mushrooms or thicker slices will naturally require an extra minute or two of cook time to reach optimal tenderness and browning. Always check for your desired doneness.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 119kcal,
Carbohydrates: 4g,
Protein: 4g,
Fat: 11g,
Saturated Fat: 2g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g,
Sodium: 297mg,
Potassium: 365mg,
Fiber: 1g,
Sugar: 2g,
Vitamin A: 1IU,
Vitamin C: 3mg,
Calcium: 6mg,
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is an estimate based on the ingredients and serving size provided. It should only be used as an approximation and may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

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