Easy Crispy Breaded Mushrooms In Air Fryer
If you’re a mushroom lover, this recipe is for you. These crispy breaded mushrooms have a light, crunchy coating and a tender, savory bite. They’re made with a delicious mix of maitake and cremini mushrooms, but you can swap in your favorite type of mushrooms for a customized twist. Plus, they’re healthier than deep-fried mushrooms and easier to make with the air fryer.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Breaded Mushrooms
Perfect Side or Delicious Appetizer
- A great finger food for parties, gatherings, or game nights
- Delicious on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauces like Tangy Pickle Remoulade or Tarragon Blue Cheese Dressing
- Light yet satisfying, making them the perfect side dish for sandwiches, wraps, or salads, like my Green Goddess Grain Bowl.
Easy Recipe
- Requires simple ingredients and a quick breading process
- The air fryer does the work, giving you crispy mushrooms with minimal effort and less grease
- No deep frying, no excess oil, and less mess in the kitchen when compared to traditional fried mushrooms
Versatile
- Use different types of mushrooms like oyster, sliced portobello, or white button mushrooms for varied textures
- Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or as the start in a main dish
- Works with multiple dipping sauces and seasonings to suit any flavor preference
These mushrooms are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Serve them hot, pair them with a creamy dip, and enjoy a plant-forward snack that’s both satisfying and better for you.
Essential Tools for Crispy Breaded Mushrooms
You only need a few basic tools to make this easy, crispy recipe.
- Air Fryer or Oven: An air fryer ensures the crispiest texture. If using an oven, a baking sheet and wire rack help with even cooking.
- Three Shallow Bowls: For the flour mixture, soy milk slurry, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Tongs or a Fork: For flipping mushrooms.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For trimming cremini mushrooms; maitake mushrooms can be pulled apart by hand.
- Serving Plate & Garnishes: Perfect for plating with spring greens, radishes, and lemon wedges.
- Oil Mister (Optional): Some may prefer to use a light mist of oil for extra crispiness, but I did not use it in this recipe.
With these tools, making crispy, golden mushrooms is quick, easy, and with less mess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These crispy breaded mushrooms are a delicious plant-forward alternative to fried chicken. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with umami flavor. This recipe features maitake mushrooms (also called hen-of-the-woods) and cremini mushrooms, but oyster mushrooms work well too. Unsweetened soy milk acts as a dairy-free binder, while panko breadcrumbs create a light and crispy texture.
For the Mushrooms:
- 8 oz mixed mushrooms (maitake/Hen-of-the-Woods and cremini; oyster mushrooms also work)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and creates the first layer of crispiness.
- 1 cup unsweetened soy milk: A high-protein, dairy-free binder that keeps the coating light. You might need a little more depending on the size of your mushrooms.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the breading.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky flavor that enhances umami.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the mushrooms.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: Creates an ultra-crispy, golden crust.
- Cooking spray or neutral oil (avocado or olive oil): Helps the mushrooms crisp up in the air fryer.
To Serve (Optional):
- Spring greens (arugula or baby lettuce): Adds a fresh, slightly peppery contrast.
- Thinly sliced radishes: Provides crunch and a pop of color.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Breaded Mushrooms
Prep the Breading Station
Set up three bowls for dredging:
- Bowl 1 (Dry Mix): Combine flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Bowl 2 (Slurry): Whisk together soy milk and 2 tablespoons of the seasoned flour to create a light batter.
- Bowl 3 (Crunchy Coating): Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish.
Double Dredge the Mushrooms
- Lightly toss mushrooms in the seasoned flour, coating all sides.
- Dip each piece into the soy milk slurry, ensuring full coverage.
- Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating generously.
- Repeat the slurry + panko step to build an extra-crispy exterior.
Air-Fry Until Golden & Crispy
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed.
- Lightly spray with cooking oil for even crisping.
- Air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy
Plate the crispy cooked mushrooms over spring greens, top with thinly sliced radishes, and serve with lemon wedges, your favorite sauces, or simply with sour cream.
Dietitian Tip: Pair with Tangy Pickle Remoulade for a high-protein, creamy dipping sauce that balances out the crunch.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
This recipe is versatile and easy to customize based on dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Whether you need a gluten-free option or want to experiment with different mushroom varieties, here are some simple swaps to try.
Make It Gluten-Free
For a fully gluten-free version, make the following substitutions:
- Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Rice flour or chickpea flour also work well for a light, crispy texture.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Swap traditional panko for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for extra crunch.
Switch Up the Mushrooms
This recipe features maitake (hen-of-the-woods) and cremini mushrooms, but different varieties can change the texture and flavor:
- Oyster Mushrooms: Meaty and delicate, they air fry up beautifully.
- Portobello Mushrooms: Slice into strips for a heartier, steak-like version.
- White Button Mushrooms: A mild, budget-friendly alternative.
Adjust the Seasoning
For a different flavor profile, try adjusting the seasoning:
- Spicy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mix.
- Herbaceous: Mix in ½ teaspoon dried oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
- Cheesy Flavor: For a dairy-free cheesy flavor, stir 1–2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast into the breadcrumbs. It adds a savory boost along with extra protein and B12.
Bake Instead of Air-Fry
If you don’t have an air fryer, the mushrooms can be baked in the oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Arrange mushrooms on a lined baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Lightly spray with oil to promote crispiness.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
For a high-protein dip, pair these crispy mushrooms with Tangy Pickle Remoulade made with blended cottage cheese.
How to Serve Air-Fried Breaded Mushrooms
These crispy breaded mushrooms are best served hot, straight from the air fryer, with plenty of flavorful remoulade and fresh garnishes. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, here are some of the best ways to serve them.
With a Dipping Sauce
A great dipping sauce enhances the crispy texture and adds extra flavor. Try pairing them with:
- Tangy Pickle Remoulade: A creamy, protein-packed dip made with blended cottage cheese and pickles
- Garlic Aioli: A smooth and garlicky option for a rich, savory contrast
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Adds heat and creaminess
- Classic Ranch Dressing: A cool and herby dip that balances the crispiness
As a Light Meal or Salad Topper
For a fresh and balanced dish, serve the crispy mushrooms over a bed of greens with crisp, vibrant toppings:
- Spring greens (arugula, baby lettuce, or mixed greens) for a peppery bite
- Thinly sliced radishes for crunch and color
- Lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish
As a Sandwich or Wrap Filling
Use these crispy mushrooms as a plant-forward alternative in sandwiches and wraps:
- In a warm pita with greens, cucumbers, and a drizzle of remoulade
- Stuffed into a baguette with shredded lettuce and pickled onions
- Wrapped in a tortilla with slaw and a spicy mayo drizzle
As a Side Dish for a Larger Meal
These mushrooms can complement a variety of main courses:
- Served alongside roasted vegetables or a grain-based dish like my Breaded Mushroom Po-Boy Grain Bowl.
- As a side for a veggie burger or grilled protein such as tofu or chicken.
- Paired with sweet potato fries and roasted broccoli or crispy roasted and smashed potatoes and a light salad.
For the best texture, serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy. If needed, reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Best Storage Tips for Leftover Crispy Mushrooms
Crispy mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage can help maintain their texture and flavor. Let them cool completely before storing to prevent steam from making them soggy.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days for the best texture.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, avoid the microwave—it will make them soft. Instead, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until crispy again.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing is not ideal as the mushrooms may lose their crispness. If you do freeze them, for best results, use a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in an air fryer or oven to help regain some crunch.
Pro Tips for Extra Crispiness
Getting that perfect golden, crunchy coating is all about technique. Here are some expert tips to maximize crispiness:
- Opt for Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko bread crumbs creates a lighter, crispier texture that stays crunchy longer.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For a thicker, crunchier crust, dip mushrooms in the breading mixture twice, letting the first layer sit for a few minutes before repeating.
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer: A hot cooking surface helps crisp up the coating immediately, preventing sogginess.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spacing out the mushrooms ensures air circulates around each piece, promoting even crisping.
- Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Whether baking or air frying, flipping the mushrooms midway ensures both sides crisp up evenly.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love
Air Fried Brussels Sprouts with Horseradish Aioli
Easy Falafel in Air Fryer: The Best Meal Prep Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Baked Camembert Cheese Recipe
Easy Crispy Fried Okra in Air Fryer
Breaded Mushrooms in The Air Fryer
Equipment
- air fryer or oven
- Three Shallow Bowls
- knife and cutting board
- Tongs or a Fork
Ingredients
- 8 oz mixed mushrooms, torn or sliced into bite sized pieces maitake/Hen-of-the-Woods and cremini; oyster mushrooms also work
Flour Mixture
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
Batter
- 1 cup unsweetened soy milk
Panko Breading
- 1½ cups Panko Breadcrumbs
Instructions
Prep the Breading Station
- Set Up Three Bowls For Dredging:Bowl 1 (Dry Mix): Combine flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.Bowl 2 (Slurry): Whisk together soy milk and 2 tablespoons of the seasoned flour to create a light batter.Bowl 3 (Crunchy Coating): Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish.
Double Dredge the Mushrooms
- -Lightly toss mushrooms in the seasoned flour, coating all sides.-Dip each piece into the soy milk slurry, ensuring full coverage.-Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating generously.-Repeat the slurry + panko step to build an extra-crispy exterior.
Air-Fry Until Golden & Crispy
- -Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).-Arrange mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed.-Lightly spray with cooking oil for even crisping.-Air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Mushrooms are done when golden brown and crispy, with a tender inside.
Notes
Nutrition
Hi, I’m Sarah Harper, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about cooking, eating, and sharing all things food! At The Addy Bean, you’ll find a variety of flexitarian recipes designed to inspire and empower you to explore the delicious world of plant-based eating. My mission is to make plant-forward meals approachable, enjoyable, and part of your everyday life!
0 Comments