Tuscan Butter Mushrooms

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Tuscan Butter Mushrooms deliver bold flavors with minimal effort. The rich butter and cream sauce is balanced by the brightness of cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, while the mushrooms soak up every bit of the savory goodness. It’s ready in just over 30 minutes and uses simple, fresh ingredients. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish brings comforting Italian-style flavor to your table with ease.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 Tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 lb baby bella mushrooms, cleaned
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
3 cups spinach
Thinly sliced basil, for garnish

directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Add minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tomatoes begin to burst.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the spinach.

7. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the spinach wilts.

8. Garnish with thinly sliced basil just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans to make it a main dish.

• Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

• Add Pasta: Serve over linguine, penne, or orzo for a creamy Tuscan pasta dish.

• Use Different Greens: Kale or arugula can be substituted for spinach.

• Make It Spicier: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use white mushrooms instead of baby bellas?

Yes, white mushrooms can be used, but baby bellas offer a deeper, more earthy flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is fully vegetarian as long as you use Parmesan without animal rennet.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes provide better texture, but canned can be used in a pinch—just drain them first.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and stir continuously when adding the cream.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can make it a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Does this pair well with pasta?

Absolutely. It’s delicious served over pasta or even mashed potatoes or rice.

What type of Parmesan is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan from a wedge offers the best flavor and melting quality.

Can I freeze Tuscan Butter Mushrooms?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and change texture.

Is there a low-fat version of this dish?

You can use light cream and reduce the butter slightly, but it may alter the richness of the sauce.

Conclusion

Tuscan Butter Mushrooms are a simple yet luxurious dish that highlights the best of creamy, garlicky, and herb-infused flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting side or transforming them into a satisfying main course, their elegance and taste will impress every time. With just a few pantry ingredients and under 40 minutes, you can bring a bit of Tuscany into your kitchen with ease.