Mushroom crostini are tasty little bites topped with sautéed mushrooms and herbs on crispy bread. They’re perfect for parties or a fun snack at home!
These bites are both easy to make and a crowd-pleaser. I always make a little extra so I can snack while I cook! Who can resist that crispy bread with buttery mushrooms? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette is great for its crispy crust and soft inside, perfect for holding toppings. If you can’t find one, try a ciabatta or sourdough bread for similar texture.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer a nice flavor, but you can substitute with button mushrooms or even portobello. If you want a different taste, try shiitake or oyster mushrooms!
Cheese: Cream cheese adds a smooth texture to the crostini, but ricotta is lighter and works well too. For a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary is wonderful, but if you’re out, thyme or sage can make a lovely substitute. Dried herbs can also work; just use about one-third of the amount.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Toasted Bread?
Getting that perfect crunch on your crostini is all about the right toasting technique. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure the oven is preheated to 375°F. This helps the bread toast evenly.
- Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil on both sides. This gives a nice golden color.
- Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, flipping halfway for even toasting.
- Keep an eye on them! They should take about 8-10 minutes, but ovens can vary, so check for golden brown.
With these tips and insights, your mushroom crostini will be a hit! Enjoy every bite!
Mushroom Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
For the Mushroom Topping:
- 1 pound cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped, plus small sprigs for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
For the Spread:
- 4 ounces cream cheese or ricotta cheese, softened (for spreading)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mushroom crostini recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In less than half an hour, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready to impress your guests or treat yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help your bread toast perfectly while you work on the mushrooms.
2. Toast the Baguette:
Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Lightly brush or drizzle both sides of each slice with olive oil. This will give them a golden and crispy texture. Place them in the preheated oven and toast for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crisp. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
While the bread is toasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell its lovely aroma. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to keep cooking until they release their moisture and start to brown, which will take about 7-10 minutes.
4. Season & Finish the Topping:
Once the mushrooms are cooked, stir in the fresh rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let those flavors meld together beautifully. If you’d like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor.
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Remove the mushroom mixture from the heat. Spread about a teaspoon of cream cheese or ricotta cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top each one generously with the sautéed mushroom mixture.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Finish off by garnishing each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. Serve the crostini immediately while warm, or at room temperature. They make for an excellent appetizer or a delightful snack!
Enjoy your savory mushroom crostini, and watch them disappear from the plate!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a French baguette is traditional, you can use other types of bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even whole grain bread. Just adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the slices.
Can I Prepare the Mushroom Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom mixture a few hours ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before assembling the crostini.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
For the best taste, it’s best to eat the crostini immediately after assembling. However, if you have leftovers, store the mushroom topping and toasted bread separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reassemble and toast the bread briefly to reheat before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the baguette with gluten-free bread options available at many grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as cheeses and seasonings, are gluten-free as well.
