Creamy Garlic Mushrooms and Bacon

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb (450 g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or mixed)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (or dried thyme/oregano)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan.

2. Cook the mushrooms: Add butter and olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss in the mushrooms and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.

3. Add garlic: Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Make the sauce: Pour in chicken broth (or wine) and let it simmer 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and smooth.

5. Combine: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, mix well, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened to your liking.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve as a side dish, over steak, grilled chicken, pasta, or rice.