Hearty mushrooms seared until golden and tossed in bold cowboy butter—a zesty mix of garlic, Dijon, lemon, paprika, and fresh herbs. Rich, savory, and ready in 30 minutes, this steakhouse-worthy side pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, or a simple salad.
2poundswhite button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed (halve larger ones)
1cupunsalted butter, softened
1tablespoonDijon mustard
1tablespoonfresh lemon juice, plus extra wedges for serving (optional)
3-4clovesgarlic, minced
1-2tablespoonsfresh parsley, finely chopped
1tablespoonfresh chives, finely chopped
1tablespoonfresh thyme, finely chopped
1teaspoonpaprika (smoked or sweet)
1/8teaspooncayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
1/8teaspooncrushed red pepper flakes (optional)
fine salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1tablespoonolive oil (optional, helps raise the sauté temperature)
2tablespoonsgrated Parmesan, for finishing (optional)
Instructions
Make the cowboy butter: In a mixing bowl combine softened butter, Dijon, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, paprika, cayenne, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and well combined; taste and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Prep mushrooms: Wipe mushrooms clean with a damp towel or soft brush and pat very dry. Halve or quarter larger pieces so sizes are similar.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add the olive oil (if using) and 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cowboy butter; allow it to melt and foam.
Sauté in batches: Add about half the mushrooms in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to brown, then toss. Cook 8–10 minutes total, adding a spoon of cowboy butter as needed, until golden and tender. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with remaining mushrooms.
Glaze and finish: Return all mushrooms to the skillet with another spoonful of cowboy butter. Toss until glossy. Season to taste with salt and black pepper and add a final squeeze of lemon.
Serve warm as a side or topping. Garnish with extra herbs and Parmesan if desired.