These mushroom crostini are a tasty bite-sized treat! With crispy bread topped with savory mushrooms and herbs, they are perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
I love making these for guests because they disappear fast! They are so easy to whip up, and trust me, everyone will ask for the recipe—just don’t tell them how simple it is! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A crusty French baguette works wonderfully for this recipe. If you can’t find a baguette, you can use ciabatta or even whole grain bread for a different flavor and texture.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add great depth, but button mushrooms will work too! You can also try shiitake or portobello for a more intense mushroom taste.
Cream Cheese or Ricotta: I love using cream cheese for its rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, try Greek yogurt or silken tofu blended smooth.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary are perfect for garnishing. If you don’t have them, dried herbs can be used, but the flavor will be less vibrant. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning could work as an alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Mushrooms for Crostini?
Cooking mushrooms can be tricky if you want them to be perfectly caramelized. First, you want to make sure they’re spread out in the pan so they cook evenly, without steaming. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pan and olive oil. This helps to sear the mushrooms nicely.
- Add the garlic first to bring out its flavor, then add the sliced mushrooms.
- Let them cook without stirring for a couple of minutes to get that nice brown color.
- After a few minutes, stir occasionally until they’re golden brown and tender, about 7–10 minutes.
Taking your time while cooking will bring out the best flavor from the mushrooms!
Mushroom Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz cream cheese or ricotta cheese, softened
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s a quick and delightful dish to whip up, especially when you have guests over or just want something tasty to snack on!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread will toast perfectly while you prepare the toppings.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Take the sliced baguette and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help them get crispy in the oven. Toast the slices in the oven for about 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crisping. Once done, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this will smell amazing! Then, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender, about 7–10 minutes.
4. Assemble Your Crostini:
Once your mushroom mixture is ready, it’s time to put everything together! Take each toasted bread slice and spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese or ricotta on top. Then, spoon the sautéed mushrooms over the cheese on each crostini.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For the final touch, garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary. If you like, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley on top too. Serve these delightful mushroom crostini immediately while they are still crisp and warm!
Enjoy these delicious bites that combine earthy mushrooms, creamy cheese, and a toast that’s just perfect! They’re sure to be a hit. 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use any sturdy bread you like, such as ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain bread. Just ensure that it’s sliced thinly for the best texture.
Can I Prepare the Mushroom Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mushroom mixture a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it gently in a skillet before assembling your crostini.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have leftovers, store the bread and mushroom topping separately in airtight containers. The bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept for 1 day and toasted again. The mushroom mixture will stay good in the fridge for 3 days. Just reheat before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Sure! To make it vegan, substitute cream cheese or ricotta with vegan cream cheese or a nut-based cheese. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing and skip cheese altogether for a lighter option.