Creamy Garlic Mushroom Sauce

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Sauce is a rich and velvety sauce featuring sautéed mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and a luscious cream base. It pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, pasta, potatoes, or even crusty bread, bringing gourmet flavor to everyday meals with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Earthy mushrooms and garlic meld into a savory, irresistible sauce
• Versatile: Serve it over meats, vegetables, pasta, or grains
• Restaurant-Quality: Tastes like something from a fine bistro, ready in under 30 minutes
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh mushrooms
• Comforting and Elegant: Both indulgent and refined—perfect for any occasion

Tip by Elsa: “Use a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, and oyster to create depth and complexity in the sauce.”

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh mushrooms (cremini, white, or mixed), sliced
• Garlic cloves, finely minced
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Heavy cream
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Cornstarch slurry (optional, for thickening)

Directions

1. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté over medium-high heat until browned and tender, about 7–9 minutes.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Add broth and scrape the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Finish: Stir in grated Parmesan, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust thickness with cornstarch slurry if needed.
6. Serve: Spoon over steak, chicken, pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Tip by Elsa: “Avoid crowding the pan when sautéing mushrooms—give them space to brown instead of steam.”

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• White Wine Boost: Deglaze the pan with dry white wine instead of broth
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and vegan butter, and skip cheese
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or black garlic
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in blue cheese or goat cheese for a sharp twist
• Nutty Addition: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for texture

Tip by Elsa: “If your sauce gets too thick, loosen it with a splash of broth or warm water just before serving.”

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little cream or broth to restore consistency.

Tip by Elsa: “This sauce thickens as it cools—always reheat slowly and stir gently to avoid curdling.”

FAQs

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, baby bella, shiitake, or white button mushrooms all work well. A mix adds depth.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully—just reheat slowly and add a splash of liquid if it’s too thick.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and thicken with cornstarch.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they may separate. Fresh is best.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can work, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

Can I use dried herbs?

Yes, but use sparingly—dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh.

How do I make it thicker?

Simmer longer or use a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).

What dishes pair best with this sauce?

Steak, chicken, pork chops, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

Is Parmesan necessary?

No, but it adds richness. Nutritional yeast or vegan cheese can be substituted.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Sauce is a luxurious and versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re dressing up a simple dinner or preparing something special, this sauce delivers depth, richness, and comfort with every spoonful—easy enough for a weeknight, elegant enough for company.

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