Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms are one of those simple side dishes that can win over even the biggest mushroom skeptics. Growing up, our dinner table always had mushroom lovers and "no thank you" folks, and I have always been firmly in the first camp. When mushrooms are packed with garlic flavor and cooked until tender with just a little crisp in the air fryer, they are hard to resist. These are one of my favorite easy side dishes.
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This post was originally published on 10/7/2020 and updated on 1/6/2026.
This recipe comes from years of hands on cooking both in restaurant kitchens and at home, where quick, reliable side dishes matter just as much as flavor. I have made these air fryer mushrooms countless times, tweaking the timing and technique so they turn out tender, garlicky, and perfectly cooked every single time. Every step is written with busy home cooks in mind and focuses on clear instructions you can feel confident following. When you make this dish, you are getting a recipe that has been tested, trusted, and enjoyed at my own family table.
Why We Love These Air Fryer Mushrooms
- This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last minute side dishes.
- The air fryer gives the mushrooms great flavor and texture without turning them soggy.
- Garlic lovers will appreciate how bold and savory this dish is without being overpowering.
- It pairs well with almost any main dish, from grilled meats to simple pasta dinners.
- It uses a very few simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Even mushroom skeptics may be surprised by how much they enjoy these.
- It is a reliable go to recipe you can make again and again with consistent results.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms Recipe Ingredients
- Mushrooms
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Garlic Powder
- Minced Garlic
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Substitution Suggestions
- Mushrooms: Any type of mushroom will work. I like to use cremini mushrooms which are baby portabellas. White button mushrooms and shiitakes are great options too. All these mushrooms are always available at the grocery stores too.
- Olive Oil: I like to use extra virgin olive oil because it tastes the best, but you could use any neutral oil. Avocado oil is a great option. You could also use vegetable oil or canola oil.
- Garlic: I love the blend of garlic powder and fresh garlic on the mushrooms, but if you don't have fresh just add a little extra garlic powder.
Best Way to Clean Mushrooms
There are two ways to clean mushrooms, in a bowl of water or with a damp towel. If you were told to never put your mushrooms in water, then I'm hear to tell you that you can. Mushrooms are 90% water so they aren't going to absorb much more water by giving them a quick wash. Add your mushrooms to a bowl of water and turn them with your hands. You'll see the dirt start to fall to the bottom of the bowl. Then promptly take them out of the water and place them on a clean towel and pat them dry. Alternatively you can use a damp towel and wipe the dirt off each mushroom. It is best to wash the mushrooms right before you plan on using them, not any earlier.
How to Store Fresh Mushrooms
After you purchase your mushrooms and bring them home, it is best to remove the plastic from the mushrooms and place them in a paper bag. This lets the moisture out and they will last a lot longer in the fridge this way.
How to Make Mushrooms in Air Fryer
- First, clean your mushrooms and if needed, slice them. Slice them all the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Next, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
- Toss the mushrooms in the oil until they are all evenly coated.
- Now preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Once preheated, add the mushrooms and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Check the mushrooms and give the basket a shake. If the mushrooms are at your desired texture, remove. If not, air fry for another 5 minutes.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
These mushrooms are great served as a side dish or as a topping. Here are some recipes to try with these delicious mushrooms.
- Ground Turkey Teriyaki Bowl
- Mushroom and Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Baked Cumin Chicken
- Instant Pot Drip Beef Sandwiches
- Oven Baked Chicken Legs
- Crock Pot Busy Day Steak
- Turkey Salisbury Steak
Storing Air Fryer Mushrooms
Store any leftover mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or in the microwave until warmed through.
Heather's Favorite Tools for this Recipe
- These nestled mixing bowls are my favorite for prepping ingredients.
- A garlic press works great for the fresh garlic. I use a Pampered Chef one but this garlic press from OXO is a great one too!
- I have a Nuwave basket air fryer. It works great. I also now have the Instant Vortex Plus and this a great air fryer with shelves!
Tips for Air Fryer Mushrooms
- Clean the mushrooms right before using.
- Preheat the air fryer before adding the mushrooms.
- Don't overcrowd the basket with a double batch. The mushrooms will be soggy instead of crispy. Make single batches and if needed reheat them in the air fryer for a minute before serving.
More Air Fryer Recipes:
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Air Fryer Mushrooms
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced or halved
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic, about 1 garlic clove
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Wash and dry mushrooms. Slice mushrooms if needed.
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt and black pepper.
- Add the mushrooms and toss to coat evenly.
- Add mushrooms to preheated air fryer basket and fry for 10-15 minutes or until desired texture. Check the mushrooms at the 10 minute mark and give the basket a shake. Fry for another 5 minutes if needed.
- Enjoy as a delicious side dish or topping on your favorite meatloaf, burger, chicken or steak.
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