Imagine a side dish that transforms ordinary mushrooms into a culinary masterpiece - crispy bacon, golden-brown mushrooms, and aromatic herbs dancing together in a symphony of flavor. This Mushroom Side Dish with Bacon isn't just a recipe; it's a gourmet experience that will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to impress and tantalize your taste buds with its rich, savory goodness.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: Clean and slice the mushrooms into uniform pieces, roughly ¼ inch thick. Chop the bacon into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Spread them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Allow the mushrooms to cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden-brown color and caramelization.
- Stir the mushrooms and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes until they are tender and have released their moisture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the mushrooms, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the mushroom and bacon mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a standalone appetizer.
Tips
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Use fresh, firm mushrooms like cremini or white button mushrooms for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure mushrooms are in a single layer to achieve proper caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Let Mushrooms Brown Naturally: Resist the urge to constantly stir; allow them to develop a golden-brown color for maximum flavor.
- Use High-Quality Bacon: Thick-cut bacon provides more flavor and a better crispy texture.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: If possible, use fresh thyme directly from the stem for the most vibrant garnish.
- Timing is Key: Cook bacon first, then use its rendered fat to add depth to the mushrooms - this is where the magic happens!
- Season Carefully: Remember that bacon is salty, so go easy on additional salt until you've tasted the final dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
