Description
These Gourmet Cheesy Mushroom and Garlic Toasts are a decadent appetizer or snack featuring sautéed garlic and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, topped with melted Gruyère or mozzarella cheese on toasted sourdough bread. Finished with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and optional red pepper flakes for subtle heat, these toasts boast a rich, savory flavor perfect for sharing or a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Toasts
- 4 slices of sourdough or French bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mushroom Mixture
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for toasting the bread.
- Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft and golden brown.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream if using, and simmer the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Remove the skillet from heat once done.
- Toast the Bread: Arrange the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet and toast them lightly in the preheated oven for 5 minutes until just crisp.
- Assemble the Toasts: Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over each toasted bread slice. Then sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle each toast with the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and optional red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use heavy cream to enrich the mushroom mixture for a creamier texture, or omit for a lighter version.
- Gruyère cheese adds a nutty flavor, but mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but provide a nice kick if you like some spice.
- Serve these toasts immediately to enjoy the cheese at its melty best.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread.
