This creamy garlic mushroom sauce is rich, savory, and packed with flavor, making it a versatile addition to many dishes. Whether served over pasta, paired with grilled meats, or used as a decadent dip, this sauce is sure to impress. Made with fresh herbs and Swiss brown mushrooms, it’s a perfect blend of creamy indulgence and earthy goodness.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp clarified unsalted butter (28g)
- 1 tsp olive oil (5ml)
- 1 shallot, finely diced (brunoise)
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
- 300g Swiss brown mushrooms, thinly sliced (10.5 oz)
- 2 tbsp white wine (40ml) (substitute with chicken or vegetable stock)
- 5g flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (0.2 oz)
- 2g thyme, finely chopped (0.1 oz)
- 400ml thickened cream (1 ⅗ cups)
Directions:
- Melt the Butter
- Heat a large pan over high heat.
- Add the clarified butter and olive oil, and let them melt and combine.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the finely diced shallot and sliced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the thinly sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté for 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper.
- Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the white wine (or substitute with stock) to deglaze the pan. Stir for about 1 minute.
- Add Herbs and Cream
- Mix in the chopped parsley and thyme. Pour in the thickened cream and stir well.
- Simmer the Sauce
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened.
- Final Touches and Serving
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pour over pasta for a luxurious meal.
- Serve as a sauce with grilled chicken, steak, or pork.
- Use as a dip with crusty bread or vegetables.
- Top roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables with this sauce for added richness.
Cooking Tips:
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little more cream or stock.
- For a deeper flavor, sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden brown before adding the liquid.
- Substitute thickened cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including selenium and vitamin D.
- Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.
- Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add antioxidants to the dish.
- This sauce is high in healthy fats from the olive oil and butter, which can help in nutrient absorption.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free if you use gluten-free stock or wine.
- Not suitable for vegans due to the use of dairy products.
- Can be made lower in fat by using a reduced-fat cream or half-and-half.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Storage:
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up if needed.
- Not recommended for freezing as the cream may separate when thawed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
- The rich and creamy texture is satisfying and comforting.
- Fresh herbs and mushrooms give it a deep, earthy flavor that elevates any meal.
Conclusion:
This creamy garlic mushroom sauce is a must-try for mushroom lovers. It’s simple to prepare and makes a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick pasta sauce or a flavorful topping for meat, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of fresh herbs, mushrooms, and cream is truly irresistible, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of mushrooms?
- Yes, you can use any mushrooms you like, such as button, cremini, or portobello.
- What can I substitute for the cream?
- Half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative can be used for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
- What can I serve this sauce with?
- It’s perfect with pasta, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dip with crusty bread.
- Can I freeze the sauce?
- Freezing is not recommended as the cream may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Can I omit the wine?
- Absolutely! You can substitute the wine with chicken or vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Is there a way to make this sauce vegan?
- Yes, use plant-based butter, cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese.
- How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
- Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
- What can I add for extra flavor?
- Try adding a splash of soy sauce, a pinch of nutmeg, or a bit of grated Parmesan.
- How long does the sauce keep in the fridge?
- It will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge.