Learn to make mushroom bruschetta, an umami-rich vegetarian appetizer perfect for your next Italian feast.
Learn From the Best
What Is Mushroom Bruschetta?
Mushroom bruschetta is a savory appetizer that consists of crostini (toasted or grilled bread with olive oil) topped with cooked mushrooms. Bruschetta is an Italian antipasto (appetizer) that was originally created to salvage stale bread and showcase the flavors of olive oil. In Italy, the term “bruschetta” refers to a grilled slice of bread rubbed with garlic and olive oil, not the topping itself. Tomato and basil are a common bruschetta topping, as well as beans and cured meats. Mushroom bruschetta can be made with a number of different mushrooms—you can forage for wild mushrooms or choose varieties such as crimini, baby portobello, or shiitake from the supermarket. For a perfect pairing, combine the mushrooms with gruyére or goat cheese and balsamic vinegar.
Hearty Mushroom Bruschetta Recipe
makes
16–20 slicesprep time
10 mintotal time
25 mincook time
10 minIngredients
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit with a rack in the bottom position. Set the bread slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil on both sides. Transfer the bread to the oven and toast until crispy and golden brown on the outside but still slightly pliable, flipping halfway through, about 5–7 minutes total. Remove and let cool slightly,
- 2
Rub the halved garlic clove over the surface of the toasted bread. Season with salt.
- 3
Sprinkle the toasted bread with cheese and return to the oven until melted and golden, about 5 minutes.
- 4
While the bread toasts, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook without oil or butter, stirring occasionally until the liquid evaporates, about 10 minutes.
- 5
Add butter, shallots, and ½ teaspoon salt to the pan and sauté, stirring often, until mushrooms are browned and shallots are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, thyme, half of the balsamic vinegar, and sugar and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
Spoon the mushroom mixture over the crostini slices and drizzle with the remaining balsamic vinegar. Garnish with parsley and more thyme leaves, if desired.
Become a better chef with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Alice Waters, Gabriela Cámara, Niki Nakayama, Chef Thomas Keller, Gordon Ramsay, Yotam Ottolenghi, Dominique Ansel, and more.