Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa

Name: Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Collection

I absolutely love this Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa recipe! It's a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms, savory garlic, and nutty quinoa that creates a dish bursting with flavor. Whenever I make it, it never fails to impress my friends and family at dinner parties. The garlic butter sauce adds richness, while the quinoa provides a hearty, wholesome base. It's simple and quick to whip up, making it a go-to for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:42:35.825Z

When I first tried making Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa, I was astonished by how the flavors melded together. The rich, buttery garlic base elevates the earthiness of the mushrooms and pairs beautifully with the fluffy quinoa. I remember cooking it for the first time and realizing how quickly it came together—perfectly timed for when unexpected guests drop by!

Since then, I have tweaked the recipe to perfect the balance between the savory and the nutty flavors. A shortcut I discovered is to sauté the mushrooms and garlic in butter before adding them to the cooked quinoa, which ensures the quinoa absorbs all that deliciousness. I can't recommend it enough—it transforms a simple dish into something incredible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that enhances the umami of mushrooms
Nutty quinoa adds a wholesome texture to every bite
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions

      

Understanding Quinoa

Quinoa is not just a trendy grain; it's packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids, making it a nutrient-dense option for any dish. When cooked properly, quinoa should appear fluffy, separate, and slightly translucent. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness from the saponins on its surface. If you find your quinoa mushy, it may have been overcooked or had too much liquid added during its preparation.

For the best flavor, consider toasting the quinoa in a dry skillet for a few minutes before cooking. This simple step enhances its nutty profile and can elevate the overall taste of the Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa. Adjust the liquid-to-quinoa ratio if you are looking for a drier texture, as using slightly less broth can yield perfectly fluffy grains.

Measuring the Right Heat

When sautéing the mushrooms and garlic, it’s crucial to manage the heat properly. Starting at medium heat allows the mushrooms to release their moisture and develop a golden-brown color without burning. If the pan is too hot, the garlic can quickly turn bitter, so make sure to keep an eye on it, stirring constantly once added to the pan. If you notice browning happening too fast, reduce the heat to medium-low to allow the garlic to release its aromatic qualities without overcooking.

Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms based on availability and preference. While the recipe calls for common button mushrooms, consider using shiitake, cremini, or even a mix for a more complex flavor profile. Each type will impart its unique taste and texture to the dish, varying from meaty to lightly earthy.

Enhancing Flavor and Variations

To take your Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa to the next level, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and garlic. This deglazes the pan, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom and infusing richness throughout the dish. Allow the wine to evaporate slightly before adding the cooked quinoa to ensure a well-balanced flavor.

For a more filling meal, you can mix in roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, or add a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. These additions not only enhance the dish nutritionally but also create a more colorful and visually enticing presentation on the table.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa:

Main Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

And that’s all you need for this dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa:

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine and Season

Once the quinoa is done, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Stir to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the quinoa mixture to a serving dish and top with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

Your Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. You can also toss in spinach or kale for added greens.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa makes for a delightful side dish, but it can also stand alone as a light main course. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the earthy flavors of the quinoa and mushrooms. Adding a sprinkle of feta or shaved Parmesan cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish by introducing a salty, creamy contrast to the garlic butter notes.

If you have leftovers, you can easily transform them into a quick lunch. Simply reheat the quinoa-stuffed mushrooms in the oven or microwave, or turn it into a hearty soup by adding vegetable broth and additional herbs for a soothing meal.

Storage and Reheating

To store your Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and prevent the quinoa from becoming dry; microwave or stovetop simmering works well for this.

For longer storage, you can freeze the quinoa mixture. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. This flexibility makes it easy to prepare ahead and enjoy later without losing the fresh flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use water, but the broth enhances the flavor of the quinoa.

→ What type of mushrooms can I use?

Any type of mushrooms works, but cremini or shiitake add a richer flavor.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.