Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions

Sautéed mushrooms and onions are a simple yet delicious side dish that brings rich flavor to any meal. Cooking them slowly in garlic butter enhances their natural sweetness and creates a tender, aromatic dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or pairing with steak, chicken, or pasta, this recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 large sweet onion, cut into ¼-inch slices
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup white wine (optional)
• 12 ounces mushrooms, halved if small or sliced ½-inch if large
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

• Heat butter over medium heat in a large skillet.
• Add onions and cook until slightly softened, about 4-5 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook just until fragrant.
• Increase heat to medium-high and add wine if using; cook until almost evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add mushrooms and soy sauce; cook until mushrooms are tender, 4-5 minutes more.
• Stir in parsley and serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve immediately as a side with steak, chicken, pork, or pasta.
• Top baked potatoes or rice bowls with sautéed mushrooms and onions for extra flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to maintain tenderness.
• Do not freeze, as mushrooms may release water and become mushy.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Butter Mushrooms and Onions
   • Use a combination of butter and olive oil, and add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
   • The herbs infuse the mushrooms and onions with an aromatic flavor, perfect for pairing with roasted meats.
2. Creamy Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions
   • After cooking, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half.
   • This creates a rich, creamy side dish that pairs well with chicken, pork chops, or pasta.
3. Mushrooms and Onions with Balsamic Glaze
   • Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of balsamic glaze over the finished dish.
   • The slight sweetness and tang from the balsamic complements the earthy mushrooms beautifully.
4. Asian-Inspired Mushrooms and Onions
   • Add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil along with the butter and soy sauce.
   • Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an Asian flavor twist.
5. Mushrooms and Onions with Red Wine Reduction
   • Replace white wine with red wine and cook until reduced to a syrupy consistency.
   • This gives a deeper, more robust flavor, perfect for pairing with steak or roasted beef.
6. Spicy Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions
   • Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 finely chopped jalapeño.
   • Brings a subtle heat that balances the natural sweetness of the onions and mushrooms.
7. Cheesy Mushroom and Onion Sauté
   • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the finished dish.
   • Adds a savory, cheesy richness that works great as a side or over baked potatoes.
8. Mushrooms and Onions with Garlic Wine Sauce
   • Add ¼ cup of dry white wine and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard while cooking mushrooms.
   • Creates a flavorful, slightly tangy sauce that coats the mushrooms and onions perfectly.
9. Smoky Mushrooms and Onions
   • Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
   • Gives a subtle smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or barbecue.
10. Mediterranean Mushrooms and Onions
    • Add ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon capers, and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
    • Brings a bright, Mediterranean twist that pairs well with fish, chicken, or pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   Yes, replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine. Soy sauce and garlic add plenty of flavor.
2. Do I have to use wine?
   No, wine is optional. You can skip it or substitute with a splash of vegetable broth for moisture.
3. Can I freeze sautéed mushrooms and onions?
   It’s not recommended because mushrooms release water when thawed, making the texture mushy.
4. How long do leftovers last?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I use different types of mushrooms?
   Yes, cremini, shiitake, portobello, or a mix all work well for added flavor.
6. Can I cook this ahead of time?
   You can, but it’s best served fresh to maintain tenderness and flavor.
7. Can I make it spicy?
   Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño while cooking garlic.
8. Can I add other vegetables?
   Bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus can be added for extra color and flavor.
9. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
   Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder works if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
    Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization.

This sautéed mushrooms and onions recipe is a quick and versatile side dish full of flavor. Whether served with meat, poultry, or pasta, it adds a rich, savory touch to any meal. Simple to prepare and ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

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