These Simple Garlic Mushroom Crostini are your new go-to holiday appetizer. Each slice of toasted baguette is topped with buttery garlic mushrooms that melt in your mouth. They’re elegant enough for a Christmas Eve appetizer table but easy enough to make for a cozy weekend snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfect for holiday appetizers easy or last-minute guests.
- Rich, garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with wine or festive drinks.
Ingredients
Let’s keep things simple and delicious. Each ingredient here plays a big role in flavor.
- Baguette: Crispy base that holds all the toppings perfectly.
- Mushrooms: Use cremini or baby bella for deep earthy taste.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize mushrooms.
- Olive oil: Balances flavor and prevents butter from burning.
- Garlic: The hero of this dish, adds bold aroma and taste.
- Fresh thyme: Brings a warm, woodsy flavor perfect for Christmas potluck spreads.
- Salt & pepper: To season and bring everything together.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for the best crostini every time.
- Slice your baguette and lightly brush each piece with olive oil. Toast in the oven at 375°F until golden.
- In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme. Cook just until fragrant—about 1 minute.
- Season with salt and pepper, then spoon the warm mixture over toasted crostini.
- Top with grated Parmesan if desired and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use day-old baguette it toasts more evenly and stays crisp.
- Do not overcrowd your pan; mushrooms need space to brown.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra festive touch.
Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes like Simple Garlic Mushroom Crostini can go wrong if you rush. Avoid soggy bread by toasting long enough and don’t overcook garlic—it turns bitter quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crostini warm on a platter with rosemary sprigs for garnish. Pair them with baked brie or a creamy dip like spinach artichoke. These are also perfect for Christmas appetizers party spreads, especially alongside wine or sparkling cider.
Simple Garlic Mushroom Crostini
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
Bread & Toast
Mushroom Topping
- 300 g cremini or baby bella mushrooms sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- salt & pepper to taste
- grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
- Pre‑heat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F). Slice the baguette on the diagonal, lightly brush each piece with olive oil, and place on a baking sheet. Toast until golden, about 8‑10 minutes.
- In a skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, and sauté until golden and slightly crisp at the edges, about 4‑5 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan so the mushrooms brown rather than steam. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Stir in the minced garlic and thyme and cook just until fragrant (about 1 minute). Season with salt & pepper to taste.
- Spoon the warm mushroom mixture onto the toasted baguette slices. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use day‑old baguette for more even toasting and crisp texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms to allow proper browning.
- Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished crostini for extra festive flair.
FAQs
Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
Yes! You can toast the bread up to 1 day in advance and store it in an airtight container. The mushroom topping can be made earlier and reheated gently before serving. This makes them ideal make ahead Christmas appetizers.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini, baby bella, or white mushrooms all work great. For a fancier touch during the best Christmas appetizers season, try a mix of wild mushrooms like oyster or shiitake for deeper flavor.
How can I keep the crostini from getting soggy?
Always toast the bread well and assemble right before serving. If making for a Christmas Eve appetizers party, you can keep toppings warm in a pan and spoon onto bread just before guests arrive.
Conclusion
These Simple Garlic Mushroom Crostini are small but mighty, the kind of appetizer that gets everyone asking for the recipe. Save or pin this one to your Christmas recipes appetizers board—it’s going to be a favorite at every holiday table!
