Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 49 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-25 minutes depending on cooking method (frying 2-3 min per batch, baking 20-25 min, air frying 10-12 min)
  • Total Time: 20-35 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings (about 3 cups or 24 bites depending on mushroom size)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites are a perfect appetizer or snack featuring whole button or cremini mushrooms coated in a flavorful seasoned panko breadcrumb crust. They can be fried, baked, or air fried to golden perfection, then optionally drizzled with garlicky butter for an extra burst of flavor. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bites pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara.


Ingredients

Scale

Mushrooms and Coating

  • 8 oz whole button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and dried
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying or spray for baking/air-frying

Garlic Butter (Optional)

  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley


Instructions

  1. Prep mushrooms: Optionally remove the stems of the mushrooms but keep them whole. Pat the mushrooms thoroughly dry to ensure a crispy coating.
  2. Set up coating stations: Prepare 3 bowls for dredging: Bowl 1 with all-purpose flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, and Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Coat mushrooms: Dredge each mushroom in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by coating with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere well to the mushrooms.
  4. Cook mushrooms (Frying option): Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mushrooms in batches for 2–3 minutes each until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Cook mushrooms (Oven option): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated mushrooms on a greased baking sheet and spray them lightly with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
  6. Cook mushrooms (Air fryer option): Air fry the coated mushrooms at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through for even crispiness.
  7. Prepare garlic butter (optional): In a small bowl, mix melted butter with finely minced garlic and chopped parsley. Drizzle this mixture over the hot mushrooms or serve on the side for dipping.
  8. Serve: Enjoy these crispy garlic mushroom bites immediately. They pair beautifully with dipping sauces such as ranch, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or marinara sauce.

Notes

  • For best results, dry mushrooms thoroughly to help the coating stick and stay crispy.
  • Removing the stems is optional but can help the mushrooms cook evenly.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature during frying for even cooking.
  • If baking, flipping the mushrooms halfway helps achieve uniform crispness.
  • These bites can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
  • The garlic butter drizzle adds extra flavor but can be omitted for a lighter version.