Mushrooms are one of those ingredients I could eat every day and never get bored. Their earthy flavor, combined with a crispy coating, makes them the perfect appetizer or snack. When you toss them in the air fryer, they become healthier while still giving you that satisfying crunch. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, these Air Fryer Fried Mushrooms are a must-try.
I love how easy this recipe is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s ideal for weeknight cravings or last-minute gatherings. The air fryer ensures a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the mushrooms tender and juicy inside. Trust me—once you try these, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Mushrooms: You’ll need fresh mushrooms for this recipe, such as button or baby bella. These varieties are the perfect size for bite-sized snacking and have a mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crispy coating.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works best here. It provides a sturdy base for the breading to stick to the mushrooms.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the glue to hold the breading onto the mushrooms. They create the perfect bond between the flour and breadcrumbs.
Breadcrumbs: For maximum crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, giving the mushrooms that irresistible crispiness.
Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will elevate the flavor of the breading. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat!
Cooking Spray: A quick spritz of cooking spray ensures the mushrooms get evenly golden and crispy in the air fryer.
Ingredients List
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms (button or baby bella)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Mushrooms
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel to wipe off any dirt, or rinse them briefly and pat them dry. Trim the stems if necessary.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Bread the Mushrooms
Dip each mushroom in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll the mushroom in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the mushrooms cook evenly.
Step 5: Air Fry the Mushrooms
Arrange the breaded mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The mushrooms are done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and serve immediately. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate for the mushrooms to crisp up properly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs: For extra flavor, try using seasoned breadcrumbs or add grated Parmesan to the mix.
- Season generously: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste—feel free to add herbs like parsley or oregano.
- Keep it crunchy: For extra crunch, double-coat the mushrooms by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While button and baby bella mushrooms work best, you can also use portobello slices or oyster mushrooms.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Almond flour and gluten-free panko are great options.
What dipping sauces pair well with these mushrooms?
Ranch, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are fantastic choices.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I freeze these mushrooms?
Yes! After breading the mushrooms, freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.