Creamy Mushroom Parmesan

Looking for a cozy, satisfying meal without the meat? This Mushroom Parmesan recipe delivers all the comforting richness of traditional Chicken Parmesan minus the meat and with a big boost of earthy umami flavor. Featuring meaty portobello mushrooms, tangy marinara sauce, and a gooey layer of melted cheese, this vegetarian dish is simple, delicious, and perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portobello mushrooms are the star here, offering a hearty texture that holds up well to grilling and baking. They’re a great source of antioxidants, potassium, and B vitamins, and they pair beautifully with the savory tomato sauce and cheesy topping.

Plus, this dish is:

• Gluten-free (just check your marinara sauce)

• Vegetarian-friendly

• Easy to prep ahead

• Ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing the grill

• 4 to 6 portobello mushrooms, stems removed, wiped clean

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 cup marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

How to Make Mushroom Parmesan

1. Grill the Mushrooms

   • Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat or prepare an outdoor grill.

   • Drizzle both sides of each mushroom cap with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

   • Lightly oil the grill to prevent sticking. Grill mushrooms for about 5 minutes per side, or until tender and heated through.

2. Assemble the Dish

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

   • Arrange the grilled mushrooms over the sauce. Spoon the remaining marinara on top.

3. Top and Bake

   • Sprinkle the mushrooms with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

   • Dot the top with butter pieces to enhance browning and richness.

   • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown on top.

4. Serve and Enjoy

   • Let cool slightly before serving.

   • Pair with a side salad, crusty bread, or a whole grain like quinoa or farro.

Tips and Variations

• Make it vegan: Use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan, and replace butter with a plant-based alternative.

• Add herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.

• Boost the protein: Add cooked lentils or white beans to the marinara sauce before layering.

• Try other mushrooms: If portobellos aren’t available, large cremini mushrooms make a great substitute.

Nutrition Spotlight: Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are low in calories but rich in nutrients. A single cap provides:

• Around 22 calories

• 2 grams of protein

• Potassium, which supports blood pressure regulation

• Selenium, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage

They're a satisfying swap for meat in vegetarian dishes, making them a smart choice for heart health and overall wellness.

The Bottom Line

Mushroom Parmesan is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing comfort. With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of cook time, it’s an easy recipe to keep in your weekly dinner rotation no meat required.

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