If you’re looking for a rich, savory, and incredibly versatile sauce that comes together in just minutes, this creamy mushroom sauce is your new kitchen staple. Whether you’re drizzling it over steak, chicken, pork chops, or pasta, this sauce adds depth, umami, and comfort to every dish.
Made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, a touch of cream, and flavorful stock, this sauce is deeply satisfying and surprisingly easy. It’s one of those recipes that feels gourmet but requires everyday ingredients — a true win for home cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 300g (10 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or mixed varieties work well)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (or thickened cream)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional, for extra richness)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the mushrooms
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to caramelize one side, then stir occasionally until browned and reduced in size (about 6–8 minutes total). - Add aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and shallot (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper. - Deglaze with stock
Pour in the stock and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. - Stir in the cream
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer gently for another 3–5 minutes, or until thickened to your liking. - Finish with cheese and herbs
If using, stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme just before serving.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 4
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups of sauce
- Cuisine: European / Western
- Course: Sauce / Condiment
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutrition values are approximate.)
Additional Notes
- Mushrooms: Use a variety of mushrooms (e.g., cremini, button, shiitake) for deeper flavor. Clean them gently with a damp paper towel — avoid washing with water to prevent sogginess.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is plant-based, or replace it with a splash of soy sauce.
- Light version: Substitute half the cream with milk and thicken with 1 teaspoon flour mixed into the butter step, or use cornstarch slurry.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of cream or stock if too thick.
- Pairing ideas: Fantastic over grilled meats, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, gnocchi, or even on toast for a savory brunch twist.