Baby bella mushrooms, also known as cremini mushrooms, are a tasty and versatile mushroom variety that can be used in many dishes. Their earthy, umami flavor pairs well with meats, pasta, rice, vegetables and more. Sautéing and baking are 2 quick and easy ways to cook baby bella mushrooms that helps bring out their flavor.
1. How To Cook Baby Bella Mushrooms Sauteed
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp paper towel or quickly rinsing to remove any dirt. Remove the ends of the stems and slice the mushrooms. You can slice them fairly thin or into thick slices depending on your preference.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil or butter. Add the garlic and shallot (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, Add the mushrooms and thyme. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are lightly browned.
Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The mushrooms are ready when lightly browned and have released some of their moisture. Be careful not to overcook them.
Remove from heat and serve mushrooms as desired.
2. How To Cook Baby Bella Mushrooms in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby bella mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
In a bowl, toss the mushrooms with the olive oil until coated.
Add the thyme, rosemary, garlic powder and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the mushrooms evenly with the spices and oil.
Arrange the mushrooms in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the mushrooms are lightly browned, flipping halfway through.
Remove from oven and serve mushrooms immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
These oven-roasted baby bellas make a great side dish or topping for pasta, pizza, salads and more! Adjust herbs and spices to your taste.
The next time you are looking for a simple side dish or ingredient to elevate a meal, give sautéed or roast baby bella mushrooms a try. Their deep flavor and meaty bite make them a versatile ingredient. Follow these easy recipes and experiment with mushroom pairings.
