Get ready to transform ordinary button mushrooms into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These slow-cooked Ranch Mushrooms are the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it side dish that combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with the tangy, herbaceous flavor of ranch seasoning. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a mouthwatering side dish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 16 oz. button mushrooms
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Clean the button mushrooms thoroughly by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Trim the stems if needed and leave the mushrooms whole.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Place the whole button mushrooms into the crock pot or slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Pour the melted butter and garlic mixture evenly over the mushrooms, making sure all mushrooms are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch dressing mix over the mushrooms, gently tossing to ensure even distribution of the seasoning.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for
- 5 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even seasoning.
- The mushrooms are done when they are tender and have absorbed the ranch and butter flavors. They should be soft but not mushy.
- Once cooking is complete, use a slotted spoon to transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish, allowing excess liquid to drain.
- Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Mushroom Selection: Choose fresh, firm button mushrooms without any signs of discoloration or soft spots for the best texture and flavor.
- Cleaning Technique: Always clean mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel instead of washing them under water, as mushrooms are like sponges and can become waterlogged.
- Butter Matters: Use high-quality butter for the most rich and delicious flavor. Consider using unsalted butter to control the salt level from the ranch mix.
- Garlic Wisdom: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing – it can quickly turn bitter and ruin the dish's flavor.
- Even Cooking: Spread mushrooms in a single layer in the crock pot to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the seasoning uniformly.
- Stirring Strategy: Gently stir the mushrooms occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure all pieces get coated with the ranch seasoning.
- Serving Suggestions: These mushrooms are versatile! Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or even mix them into pasta, rice, or as a topping for steak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg