Cowboy Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Clean and slice the mushrooms. Depending on their size, you can either slice them thickly or leave smaller mushrooms whole.
Dice the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and has released its fat. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions to the skillet with the bacon fat and sauté over medium heat until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
Season the mushrooms with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the mushrooms evenly with the spices.
Step 5: Add the Sauces and Bacon
Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine. If you want extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter at this stage and let it melt into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the mushrooms to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately as a side dish with steak, grilled meats, or even over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Cowboy Mushrooms
Use Mixed Mushrooms: Combining different types of mushrooms adds depth of flavor and texture to the dish. Portobello and cremini mushrooms give a meaty texture, while shiitake adds a slightly smoky flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the mushrooms in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can cause them to steam rather than brown.
Add a Splash of Bourbon: For a Southern twist, add a splash of bourbon along with the Worcestershire sauce. This adds a warm, caramelized flavor to the dish.
Flavor Variations
Herbaceous Mushrooms: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary along with the paprika for an earthy, aromatic flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Mushrooms: Stir in some grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese right before serving for a cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions
With Steak: Serve these mushrooms as a savory side to a juicy steak or grilled ribeye for a complete cowboy-style meal.
On Toast: Pile the mushrooms on top of crusty bread for a hearty, rustic appetizer or light lunch.
In Tacos: Use the mushrooms as a filling for vegetarian or meat tacos, topped with fresh avocado and salsa.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Mushrooms are a bold and satisfying dish that brings together the best of smoky, savory, and earthy flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or using them to top off a steak, these mushrooms are sure to impress. The combination of crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and rich mushrooms makes this a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it out and bring a bit of cowboy flair to your next meal!