Ingredients
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms (baby bella), wiped clean and stems trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix (ensure no MSG or dairy if preferred)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- **Prepare the Mushrooms:** Begin by gently wiping the cremini mushrooms clean with a damp cloth or paper towel; avoid rinsing them as they can absorb too much water. Carefully trim off the very ends of the mushroom stems. If any mushrooms are particularly large, you can halve them for more even cooking.
- **Season for Flavor:** In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the prepared mushrooms, olive oil, dry ranch seasoning mix, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly until each mushroom is beautifully and evenly coated with the savory ranch mixture.
- **Preheat and Load:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Once heated, arrange the seasoned mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It's crucial not to overcrowd the basket; cook in two or three batches if necessary to ensure the mushrooms crisp up rather than steam.
- **Air Fry to Perfection:** Air fry the mushrooms for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket vigorously halfway through the cooking time (around the 5-6 minute mark) to promote even browning and a lovely tender-crisp texture. Continue cooking until the mushrooms are tender, slightly browned, and incredibly fragrant.
- **Serve Hot:** Carefully remove the cooked mushrooms from the air fryer. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Air Fryer Ranch Mushrooms immediately as a standalone snack, a delicious appetizer, or a fantastic side dish.
Notes
**Storage Tips:** Leftover Zesty Air Fryer Ranch Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and slightly re-crisped.
**Flavor Boosters:** For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be added to the seasoning mix. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving also brightens the flavors beautifully.
**Serving Suggestions:** These versatile mushrooms are fantastic on their own, but they also make an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken, steak, or fish. Try them as a healthy topping for salads, or even folded into a breakfast scramble for a savory twist. They’re a perfect low-carb, gluten-free snack that everyone will adore!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 lb)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
