Slow Cooker Garlic Ranch Mushrooms
Juicy, tender mushrooms slow-cooked in a savory garlic and tangy ranch seasoning blend. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for salads and grilled dishes. The slow cooker infuses rich flavor while tenderizing the mushrooms to perfection.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) baby bella or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and halved/quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese (for creamy version)
- Optional: fresh lemon juice (for finishing)
Instructions
- Prepare Mushrooms: Gently clean mushrooms with a damp cloth; slice into halves or quarters.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, toss mushrooms with olive oil or melted butter, minced garlic, ranch seasoning, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Spread mixture evenly in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 1.5–2 hours until mushrooms are tender and juicy.
- Add Cream (Optional): If using cream or cream cheese, stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired for brightness.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
- Avoid soaking mushrooms to prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for best flavor.
- To make homemade ranch seasoning, mix dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free ranch seasoning blend.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat gently.
- This recipe adapts well for doubling, but increase cooking time slightly in a larger slow cooker.