Mushroom Sandwich Melts

This Mushroom Sandwich Melts recipe is a delicious combination of sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all piled onto toasted French baguette slices. With simple ingredients like onions, garlic, and fresh parsley, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, lunch, or an appetizer. Baked until golden and bubbly, each bite offers a rich and savory flavor profile that is sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this mushroom melt recipe provides a comforting, flavorful option for every occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, pressed
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 24 oz (1 1/2 lbs) white mushrooms, diced
• 8 oz bacon, chopped into thin strips
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
• 2 1/2 cups (8 oz) Mexican cheese blend, finely shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
• 2 soft French baguettes, sliced into 1/2″ thick toasts

---

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Skillet:
   Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 Tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden (about 5-7 minutes). Add the pressed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic to a mixing bowl.
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
   In the same skillet, add another 1 Tbsp of butter and sauté the diced mushrooms over medium-high heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and the liquid evaporates. Transfer the mushrooms to the mixing bowl with the onions and garlic.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until browned and crispy, about 7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then add it to the mixing bowl with the mushrooms and onions.
4. Prepare the Filling:
   To the mixing bowl, add 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 2 Tbsp mayonnaise, 1/4 to 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Assemble the Sandwich Melts:
   Spoon the mushroom, bacon, and cheese mixture generously onto the toasted baguette slices. Shape and mound the mixture as needed.
6. Bake:
   Place the prepared toasts on a baking sheet and bake at 350˚F for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The combination of sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melted cheese makes every bite full of flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These mushroom sandwich melts are great for a cozy dinner, an appetizer for gatherings, or a comforting snack.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish comes together quickly for a delicious, satisfying meal.

---

Tips

• Use Fresh Baguettes: Soft, fresh French baguettes hold up best for toasts, giving you a crunchy base with a tender interior.
• Add More Cheese: Feel free to add extra cheese for a richer melt, especially if you’re a cheese lover.
• Customize the Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, and consider adding other spices, like crushed red pepper flakes, for a little heat.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Different Cheese: Swap the Mexican cheese blend for mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free baguettes or any other gluten-free bread to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

---

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mushroom and bacon mixture, store it in the fridge, and assemble the toasts just before baking.

Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! You can substitute the French baguette with any bread you prefer, such as ciabatta or sourdough.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a side salad or fresh greens to balance the richness of the sandwich melts.
• Soup Sidekick: These melts also go wonderfully with a bowl of tomato soup or creamy mushroom soup for a hearty meal.
• Serve as Appetizers: Cut the sandwich melts into smaller pieces to serve as appetizers at your next gathering.

---

Suggestions

• Garnish with Extra Herbs: Add extra parsley or chives as a garnish to enhance the freshness and color of the dish.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.