Mushroom crostini are delicious little bites that make a great appetizer! Crispy bread topped with tasty sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.
I love to serve these at parties—they vanish so quickly, it’s like a magic trick! 😄 Just whip them up and watch everyone enjoy these flavorful treats!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette gives that perfect crunch! If you can’t find one, ciabatta or any other crusty bread will work well too. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a lovely flavor, but white button mushrooms are just as good! If you’re feeling adventurous, try shiitake or portobello for a deeper taste.
Ricotta Cheese: I love using creamy ricotta for its texture, but if you’re out, cream cheese or goat cheese can also add a nice touch. They’ll create a slightly different flavor, but still delicious!
Olive Oil: You can use melted butter instead of olive oil for brushing the bread if you prefer a richer taste.
How Do You Get Mushrooms to Brown Perfectly?
Getting mushrooms to brown without becoming soggy is important for great flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Always start with a hot skillet and let the oil heat up before adding mushrooms.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan—this traps steam and prevents browning. Cook in batches if you need to!
- Let the mushrooms sit for a minute or two before stirring. This helps them develop that nice golden color.
Follow these steps, and your mushrooms will be perfectly sautéed and deliciously golden!
Mushroom Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 cups sliced cremini or white mushrooms
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces ricotta cheese (or cream cheese as an alternative)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, arrange your baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will give the crostini a delightfully crispy texture.
2. Toast the Baguette:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and toast the baguette slices until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
While the bread is toasting, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it releases its lovely aroma—be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them while stirring occasionally, until they soften, release their liquid, and finally brown nicely—about 7-10 minutes. Add in the chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything together. Then, turn off the heat.
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Take each toasted baguette slice and spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese on top. The creaminess of the ricotta pairs beautifully with the savory mushrooms!
6. Top and Garnish:
Now, spoon some of the warm sautéed mushrooms onto the ricotta-covered bread slices. For a finishing touch, garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary and, if you choose, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These tasty bites are best served immediately. Gather your friends, set out the platter, and watch them disappear!
This recipe creates delightful little crostinis that are crispy, creamy, and bursting with savory flavors. Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in!
Can I use different types of bread for the crostini?
Absolutely! While a French baguette is traditional, you can substitute it with ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread you prefer. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings!
What if I have leftover sautéed mushrooms?
Leftover sautéed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re great on top of salads, mixed into pasta, or even as a pizza topping!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese instead of ricotta and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative. You can also substitute olive oil with vegan butter if desired.
How can I make the crostini in advance?
You can prepare the sautéed mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Toast the baguette slices just before serving to keep them crispy, then assemble the crostini just before serving to enjoy them at their freshest!