Creamy Garlic Mushrooms with Crispy Bacon

Indulge in a rich and decadent side dish with these Creamy Garlic Mushrooms with Crispy Bacon. This recipe features tender button mushrooms sautéed in a savory garlic butter sauce with crispy bacon bits and a touch of cream for a velvety finish. The combination of smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce is irresistibly delicious and perfect as a side dish for any meal, or even as a satisfying topping for steak, chicken, or pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound small button mushrooms, rinsed and patted dry with paper towels
• ½ teaspoon of chili powder, or adjust according to your preference
• ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika, or more if desired
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Utilize a slotted spoon to lift the bacon out of the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat.
   • Keep the bacon grease in the skillet for later use.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
   • To the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil.
   • After the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for roughly 1 minute, or until it becomes aromatic.
   • Add the button mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
3. Season the Mushrooms:
   • Sprinkle the chili powder, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and fresh ground black pepper over the mushrooms.
   • Stir well to evenly coat the mushrooms with the spices.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
   • Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
   • Simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the broth has reduced slightly.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Add the Bacon:
   • Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the creamy mushroom mixture.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and transfer the creamy garlic mushrooms with bacon to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with steak, chicken, or even as a topping for mashed potatoes or pasta.

Conclusion:

These Creamy Garlic Mushrooms with Crispy Bacon are a luxurious and indulgent side dish that will elevate any meal. The combination of tender mushrooms, savory bacon, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served alongside your favorite proteins or even enjoyed on its own. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to add a touch of decadence to your dinner table. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!