When it comes to rich, flavorful sides, few things beat the delicious simplicity of sautéed mushrooms and onions. This versatile recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a dish bursting with umami and savory sweetness. Whether served as a topping for steak, layered in sandwiches, or tossed into pastas and grain bowls, this combination enhances everything it touches.
If you’ve ever had mushrooms over steak at a steakhouse and wished you could recreate that savory magic at home—this is your guide.
Why This Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions Recipe Works
This dish is more than just a supporting act—it’s a flavor powerhouse. Onions slowly caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness, while mushrooms brown to perfection, soaking up butter and herbs like sponges. Together, they create an umami-rich blend that complements a wide variety of main dishes—especially hearty proteins like grilled steaks e roasted chicken.
Here’s Why You’ll Love It:
- ✅ Fácil de Fazer – No complicated techniques.
- ✅ Restaurant-Quality – Tastes gourmet, even on weeknights.
- ✅ Personalizável – Change herbs, add sauces, or make it creamy.
- ✅ Great Steak Companion – One of the best mushroom sides for steak.
⭐ Ingredientes que Você vai Precisar
To achieve golden, buttery perfection, you’ll want to start with these simple ingredients:
- 2 colheres de azeite
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 16 oz (450g) cremini or white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 2 garlic clovespicada
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black peppera gosto
- Opcional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or dry white wine
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or grated parmesan
🧄 Ingredient Spotlight
- Mushrooms: Cremini or baby bella mushrooms offer a rich, meaty flavor, but white button mushrooms work well, too.
- Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelization, but red or sweet onions add unique flavors.
- Butter & Olive Oil: The combo helps balance richness and prevent burning.
- Garlic & Thyme: Classic flavor enhancers for both steak and mushrooms.
🔥 How to Make Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables
Wipe mushrooms clean using a damp paper towel. Avoid rinsing under water—they absorb moisture and won’t brown properly. Slice mushrooms and onions thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
Step 2: Heat Your Pan
Use a frigideira grande ou cast iron pan for the best browning. Add olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, you’re ready to go.
Step 3: Start with Onions
Add sliced onions to the skillet and sauté for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally. They should soften and turn golden brown. Add a pinch of salt to help them release moisture and caramelize.
Chef’s Tip: For deep caramelization, reduce heat and cook onions for up to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms
Push onions to the side of the pan. Spread mushrooms in a single layer in the remaining space. Let them cook without stirring for 3–4 minutes to allow browning.
Stir occasionally until mushrooms have released their moisture and start to turn golden (about 8–10 minutes total).
Step 5: Add Garlic & Thyme
Once the mushrooms have browned, stir everything together and add garlic and thyme. Sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Finish and Deglaze
Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar or wine if using. This lifts the flavorful brown bits (fond) from the pan and adds a slightly tangy depth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions: How to Use Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions
This dish shines in both simple and elevated meals. Try these crowd-pleasing combinations:
1. Mushrooms and Onions Over Steak
This is a classic for a reason. Spoon over grilled ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, or even steak tips. The richness of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the onions complement the bold flavors of beef perfectly.
2. Burgers and Sandwiches
Top cheeseburgers, patty melts, or roast beef sandwiches with a generous helping. It’s the ultimate comfort upgrade.
3. Toppings for Baked Potatoes
Load onto a baked potato with sour cream and shredded cheese for a hearty vegetarian meal.
4. Side for Grilled Chicken or Pork
Pair with grilled pork chops, roasted chicken thighs, or turkey cutlets for a complete dinner.
5. Breakfast Brunch Add-On
Mix into scrambled eggs, frittatas, or top a slice of sourdough with mushrooms, onions, and a poached egg.
🧠 Expert Cooking Tips
🟫 Don’t Crowd the Pan
Too many mushrooms at once will steam instead of brown. Work in batches if necessary.
🟨 Let Mushrooms Sit
Let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes to form that gorgeous brown crust.
🟩 Butter Last
Add an extra pat of butter at the end for silky, glossy mushrooms.
🟥 Try a Cast Iron Skillet
It retains heat and gives mushrooms an unbeatable sear.
🔄 Variações para Tentar
🧀 Creamy Mushroom Onion Sauce
Add a splash of cream or sour cream at the end and reduce slightly for a steakhouse-style sauce.
🧄 Garlic Butter Mushrooms and Onions
Double the garlic and add an extra tablespoon of butter for a bold, garlic-lover’s version.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne.
🌿 Herb Swap
Use rosemary, oregano, sage, or Italian seasoning instead of thyme for variety.
🥩 Best Steak Pairings for Mushrooms and Onions
Looking to build the perfect steak dinner with sides? Here’s what pairs beautifully with this recipe:
- Ribeye – Fatty and flavorful
- Filet Mignon – Lean and tender
- New York Strip – Balanced and beefy
- T-Bone or Porterhouse – A steakhouse classic
Bonus Pairings:
- Creamed spinach
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
- Salada césar
- Red wine reduction
🧊 Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
🧺 Armazenamento
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔁 Reaquecimento
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until warm.
❄️ Congelamento
Not ideal, as mushrooms can become rubbery. However, you can freeze them in a sauce like cream or gravy for better texture retention.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~140
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Vegan Opção: Use plant-based butter
💡 FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Can I make sautéed mushrooms and onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well and reheat easily. Make them up to 2 days ahead.
What’s the best type of mushroom to use?
Cremini (baby bella) for richness, or white button mushrooms for a lighter flavor. For a deep, meaty flavor, try portobello or shiitake.
Can I use red onions?
Yes! Red onions offer a sweeter, more colorful twist.
Do I need to peel mushrooms?
Nope—just wipe them clean with a damp towel. Avoid washing directly under water.
🍄 Final Thoughts: The Unsung Hero of Steak Night
Sautéed mushrooms and onions may be simple, but they offer big returns in both flavor and versatility. Whether you’re enhancing a juicy steak, layering them in a sandwich, or serving them as a stand-alone side, they always deliver comfort, umami, and sophistication. Keep this mushroom onion recipe in your culinary toolbox—it’s sure to become a favorite.
Portuguese 
English 
French 
Spanish