Crispy fried mushrooms are the ultimate snack or appetizer when you want something golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. With a light buttermilk coating and a perfectly seasoned crust, these mushrooms deliver that satisfying crunch in every bite. They’re quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
I love serving easy mushroom dishes like my garlic mushroom pasta on weeknights, but when it comes to game day or casual gatherings, these fried mushrooms always steal the spotlight. Simple, delicious, and impossible to resist—this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Mushrooms
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously crispy texture that satisfies every craving.
- Versatile as a game-day crispy mushroom appetizer or a snack.
- Customizable with your favorite spices for a personal touch.
- Great for sharing, making it a hit at gatherings.
Easy Crispy Fried Mushrooms
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for crispy fried mushrooms, perfect as an appetizer or game-day snack.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 lbs white button mushrooms, stems trimmed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, marjoram, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
- In a third bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
- Dip each mushroom in the flour, then in the buttermilk, and finally coat with the panko mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the coated mushrooms in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- These mushrooms can be served with a dipping sauce of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Mushrooms
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering crispy fried mushrooms. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give a light, airy crunch that’s simply irresistible.
- Old Bay seasoning: A classic blend that adds a hint of spice and depth to your mushrooms.
- Marjoram: This herb brings a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms.
- Garlic powder: A must-have for that savory kick that elevates the dish.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
- Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the mix.
- Buttermilk: This creamy base not only tenderizes the mushrooms but also helps the coating stick beautifully.
- White button mushrooms: These are the stars of the show! Their mild flavor and meaty texture make them perfect for frying.
- All-purpose flour: This helps create a barrier that keeps the buttermilk and breadcrumbs in place.
- Vegetable oil: Essential for frying, it should have a high smoke point to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery twist. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Fried Mushrooms
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these crispy fried mushrooms! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer or snack in no time.
Prepare the Coating Mixtures
Start by combining the panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, marjoram, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This mixture is the secret to achieving that delightful crunch. The panko breadcrumbs create a light texture, while the seasonings add flavor that dances on your taste buds. In another bowl, place the all-purpose flour. This will help the buttermilk adhere to the mushrooms, ensuring an even coating.
Coat the Mushrooms
Take each trimmed white button mushroom and dip it into the flour first. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, immerse it in the buttermilk, allowing it to soak up that creamy goodness. Finally, roll the mushroom in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. This three-step process is key to creating those crispy fried mushrooms that everyone will love!
Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go! The right oil temperature is crucial for frying; too low, and your mushrooms will absorb oil, becoming soggy. Too high, and they’ll burn before cooking through.
Fry the Mushrooms
Carefully add the coated mushrooms to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. The aroma will be irresistible, and you’ll know they’re ready when they look like little golden treasures!
Drain and Serve
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the mushrooms from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve these crispy fried mushrooms hot, perhaps with a tangy dipping sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Don’t rush the coating process; ensure each mushroom is evenly coated for the best crunch.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy mushrooms.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture for unique flavors.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture; they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Equipment Needed
- Deep pan or Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed pot works well if you don’t have a deep fryer.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the mushrooms from the hot oil.
- Mixing bowls: Use three bowls for the flour, buttermilk, and breadcrumb mixtures.
- Paper towels: Essential for draining excess oil after frying.
Variations To Try
- Spicy Fried Mushroom Bites: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Herb-Infused Coating: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano with the panko for an aromatic twist that enhances the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs, for a deliciously crispy treat.
- Cheesy Delight: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms.
- Asian-Inspired: Use sesame seeds in the panko mixture and serve with a soy sauce or sweet chili dipping sauce for a delightful fusion twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Complement with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Crispy Fried Mushrooms
Can I make these crispy fried mushrooms ahead of time?
While these mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the coating and mushrooms in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. This way, you can whip up a delicious deep-fried mushroom appetizer in no time!
What dipping sauces pair well with crispy fried mushrooms?
There are so many options! A classic ranch dressing or spicy aioli works wonders. You could also try a tangy marinara or a sweet chili sauce for a delightful twist. The choice is yours!
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white button mushrooms are perfect, you can experiment with cremini or portobello mushrooms for a heartier bite. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for larger mushrooms.
How do I store leftover crispy fried mushrooms?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture. Microwaving may leave them soggy, so avoid that if you can!
Can I make these buttermilk-coated fried mushrooms gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs work beautifully, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty bites!
Conclusion
These crispy fried mushrooms are more than just a snack—they’re an experience. The golden crust, tender mushrooms, and bold flavors make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re making them as a fun appetizer for friends or a cozy treat at home, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
If you’re craving more mushroom inspiration, try my savory roasted mushrooms with garlic and thyme or my creamy butter beans and mushrooms. Both recipes are hearty, flavorful, and pair beautifully with these crispy bites.
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