Print

Cowboy Mushrooms Recipe Easy Herb Skillet Side Dish You’ll Love

cowboy mushrooms - featured image

Cowboy mushrooms are a bold, rustic, and flavor-packed skillet side dish featuring meaty mushrooms, fresh herbs, and garlic. Ready in under 20 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or any occasion where you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing veggie side.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz button mushrooms (cremini or baby bella preferred), cleaned and quartered
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, use tamari for gluten-free or skip for vegan)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Optional add-ins:
  • 1 small shallot, finely diced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp thyme leaves (fresh or dried)

Instructions

  1. Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel and quarter or slice into bite-sized pieces. Keep sizes consistent for even cooking.
  2. Mince garlic and finely chop rosemary and parsley. Prep shallot or thyme if using.
  3. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, swirling to coat. Wait until butter foams and starts to brown slightly.
  4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to brown on one side. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
  5. Sprinkle on salt, pepper, rosemary, and garlic. Stir frequently, scraping up caramelized bits. If using shallot, add now and cook until soft (about 5-6 minutes).
  6. When mushrooms are browned and tender (edges crispy, centers soft), reduce heat to low. Add lemon juice, Worcestershire (if using), and parsley. Stir to coat and adjust seasoning. Add red pepper flakes or paprika if desired. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  7. If mushrooms are watery, increase heat and stir to evaporate excess liquid. If sticking, add a splash more oil.
  8. Transfer mushrooms to a serving bowl or plate. Garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge. Serve hot.

Notes

For vegan, use plant-based butter and skip Worcestershire or use vegan/tamari. Don’t overcrowd the pan for best browning. Add fresh herbs at the end for brightness. Mushrooms can be made ahead and reheated. Try variations with different herbs, smoked paprika, or a splash of balsamic. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy mushrooms, skillet mushrooms, herb mushrooms, easy mushroom side, vegetarian side, gluten-free mushrooms, cast iron mushrooms, rustic mushrooms, garlic mushrooms, quick mushroom recipe