Why Make This Recipe

Cowboy Mushrooms with Bacon and Onions is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The combination of savory bacon, sweet onions, and meaty mushrooms creates a comforting side dish or even a main course. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy family dinner.

How to Make Cowboy Mushrooms With Bacon & Onions

Ingredients

1 pound large fresh mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini)
4 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Begin by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. If they are particularly dirty, you can give them a quick rinse under cold water, but be sure to dry them thoroughly afterwards.
Cut the stems off the mushrooms and set them aside. Slice the mushroom caps into thick pieces.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, leaving the grease in the skillet.
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onions. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and beginning to caramelize.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Stir in the sliced mushroom caps and the reserved mushroom stems. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender and golden.
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the mushroom mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Finally, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the mushrooms and onions.
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Cowboy Mushrooms With Bacon & Onions

Serve these cowboy mushrooms warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a topping on toasted bread for an appetizer. They can also be enjoyed over rice or pasta for a delicious main dish.

How to Store Cowboy Mushrooms With Bacon & Onions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Cowboy Mushrooms With Bacon & Onions

Make sure to use thick-cut bacon for a meaty texture and full flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or button, for varied flavors.
For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes along with the spices.

Variation

If you want a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable oil instead of olive oil. You can add some smoked salt for that smoky flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh mushrooms for this dish, as frozen mushrooms might turn mushy when cooked.

What can I serve with cowboy mushrooms?
These mushrooms pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or can be served on their own as a hearty side.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve!