Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms

Equipment

• Air fryer (3-quart or larger)
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush or silicone spatula
• Tongs

Ingredients

• 16 oz (450 g) cremini or white button mushrooms , wiped clean
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (or olive oil for a lighter version)
• 3 cloves garlic , finely minced or grated
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese , plus extra for serving
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Ingredient Notes

• Mushrooms: Cremini (baby bella) have deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work beautifully. Avoid pre-sliced mushrooms if possible — whole mushrooms you slice yourself hold up better.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano melts and clings far better than the pre-shredded stuff, which contains anti-caking agents that resist melting.
• Butter vs. olive oil: Butter adds richness, but it can burn at high heat. If using butter, keep the temperature at 375°F. Olive oil tolerates 390–400°F well.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms (5 minutes)

1. Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel — do not soak them in water, as they act like sponges and will steam instead of roast. Trim the tough stem ends, then slice the mushrooms in half (or quarters if they’re large). Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
2. Intensity: Low | Time: 5 minutes

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter (2 minutes)

1. In your mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until it forms a fragrant, golden paste.
2. Intensity: Low | Time: 2 minutes

Step 3: Coat the Mushrooms (2 minutes)

1. Add the mushrooms to the bowl and toss gently with a spatula until every piece is glossy and evenly coated. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes so the seasoning penetrates.
2. Intensity: Low | Time: 2–3 minutes

Step 4: First Air Fry — High Heat (6 minutes)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms in a single layer — don’t overcrowd, or they’ll steam. Work in batches if needed. Air fry for 6 minutes , then shake the basket.
2. Intensity: Medium | Temperature: 375°F | Time: 6 minutes

Step 5: Add Parmesan & Second Air Fry (4–6 minutes)

1. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the mushrooms and shake the basket to distribute. Continue air frying at 375°F for 4–6 more minutes , shaking once halfway, until the mushrooms are deeply golden, shriveled slightly, and the cheese has formed crispy little patches.
2. Intensity: Medium-High | Temperature: 375°F | Time: 4–6 minutes
3. Total cook time: 10–12 minutes. Smaller mushroom pieces may finish at 10 minutes; larger quarters may need 12.

Step 6: Finish & Serve (1 minute)

1. Transfer to a serving bowl, shower with extra Parmesan, and scatter fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately — air-fried mushrooms are at their crispiest right out of the basket.
2. Intensity: Low | Time: 1 minute

Nutrition

Calories: 165 kcal · Protein: 8 g · Fat: 12 g · Carbohydrates: 6 g — Dietary · Saturated Fat: 7 g — Trans · Fiber: 2 g — · Sugar: 2 g · Sodium: 380 mg