Mushroom crostini are tasty little bites topped with delicious sautéed mushrooms on crispy bread. Perfect for a party or a cozy night in, they’re quick and easy to make!
These crispy treats always impress guests, especially with that buttery mushroom flavor. I love serving them with friends and watching everyone enjoy every last bite! 🍄❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives a perfect crunch to crostini. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free bread. Thinly sliced ciabatta also works nice as an alternative!
Mushrooms: I love using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for great flavor. If you can’t find these, button mushrooms are a reliable choice. Feel free to experiment with other types as well!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds a creamy base. For a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt, or spreadable goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I recommend thyme for its earthy flavor. If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can work in a pinch—just use less as it’s more concentrated. You could also use basil or parsley for a different profile.
How Do I Make the Mushrooms Extra Flavorful?
Getting those mushrooms just right is key to wonderful crostini. Make sure to sauté them over medium heat to develop their flavor without burning them. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use butter and a bit of olive oil for rich flavor and to prevent burning.
- Cook the mushrooms until they are well-browned—this will bring out their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic right near the end of cooking so it doesn’t burn, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them brown instead of steam!
Mushroom Crostini
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing bread)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mushroom Crostini can be prepared in about 20 minutes, with 10 minutes for baking the bread and about 10 minutes for sautéing the mushrooms and assembling everything. It’s a quick and satisfying appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Bread:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, slice your baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely. When the oven is ready, toast the slices for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them and turn the slices halfway through. Once done, remove them from the oven and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. When the butter is bubbly, add your mixed mushrooms. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated. This gives them a wonderful flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Next, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves to the mushrooms. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then remove the skillet from heat.
4. Assemble the Crostini:
Take each toasted baguette slice and spread a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese on top. Then, pile on a portion of the sautéed mushrooms, making sure each piece is loaded with flavor. If you like, add a sprig of fresh thyme and a sprinkle of lemon zest or chopped herbs for a lovely finishing touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Mushroom Crostini are now ready to serve! Enjoy them immediately while they are warm and crispy. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack at home!
Bon appétit! 🍄✨
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use any type of bread you like. Ciabatta, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread work well. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly to achieve that perfect crispiness!
Can I Make the Mushroom Topping in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sautéed mushroom topping ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove before assembling the crostini.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
Leftover assembled crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, the bread may lose its crispiness. To enjoy them again, you could re-toast the bread lightly in the oven before serving.
What Variations Can I Try with the Toppings?
There are so many delicious variations! You can add sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a more substantial crostini, try layering in some prosciutto or roasted red peppers alongside the mushrooms!