When it comes to gourmet meals, few ingredients can elevate a dish quite like morel mushrooms. These prized fungi have a rich, earthy flavor and a tender texture that pairs perfectly with a wide range of ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of fine dining, these 20 savory morel mushroom recipes are sure to impress.
From creamy risottos and pan-seared delights to hearty pasta dishes and elegant tartlets, we’ve gathered some of the most mouth-watering morel mushroom recipes from around the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and let these incredible ingredients take your meals to new heights!
Creamy Morel Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe showcases the earthy flavor of morels and the richness of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add morel mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot; add 1/2 cup at a time to the risotto, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more.
6. When rice is cooked and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Morel Mushrooms with Garlic Butter
Elevate your dish with the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and stemmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt, then add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the morel mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Thyme Pasta
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms with the brightness of thyme, creating a simple yet sophisticated pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed morel mushrooms (fresh or dried), sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. If using white wine, stir it in at this point.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Morel Mushrooms with Herbed Olive Oil
Elevate your grilled mushroom game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of morels with the brightness of herbed olive oil.
Ingredients:
• 12 large morel mushrooms, stems removed
• 1/4 cup herbed olive oil (see below for herbed olive oil recipe)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Herbed Olive Oil Recipe:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together herbed olive oil and a pinch of salt.
3. Brush both sides of the morel mushrooms with the herbed olive oil mixture.
4. Place the mushrooms on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Tart
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent tart featuring earthy morels, tender asparagus, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 6-8 fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, sauté asparagus and morels in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the mushroom-asparagus mixture over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the crust with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Morel Mushroom Soup with Truffle Oil
This rich and earthy soup showcases the decadent flavor of fresh morels, elevated by the subtle luxury of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (including morels), cleaned and sliced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Truffle oil, for serving (about 1 teaspoon per serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, drizzled with truffle oil.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Wild Rice Pilaf
Elevate your mealtime with this earthy pilaf, featuring the rich flavor of morel mushrooms and nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed morels (fresh or dried), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring wild rice and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sliced morels and thyme to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender and fragrant, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork. Stir in cooked mushroom mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Leek Quiche
Morel Mushroom and Leek Quiche Recipe
This quiche is a perfect combination of earthy flavors from the morels and leeks, wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (morels, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, leeks, and garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the mushroom mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the filling, then fold the other half of the pastry over the filling.
6. Brush the pastry with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Gruyère Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms with the richness of Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a tender chicken breast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the morel mushrooms in butter until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the mushroom mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the mushrooms.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Spinach Salad
This earthy salad combines the rich flavor of morel mushrooms with the freshness of baby spinach, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh morel mushrooms, sliced
– 4 cups baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced morel mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their earthy aroma.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the baby spinach leaves and cooked morel mushrooms.
4. If using goat cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Bacon Carbonara
Elevate your carbonara game with the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed morel mushrooms (fresh or dried), sliced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add morel mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to combine. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Add cooked morel mushrooms and pancetta or bacon to the bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Potato Gratin
A creamy, earthy gratin that showcases the rich flavors of morel mushrooms and tender potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and morel mushrooms.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the potato-mushroom mixture, tossing to coat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Shallot Gravy
Elevate your roasted meats or vegetables with this rich and earthy gravy, featuring the prized flavor of morel mushrooms and the sweetness of caramelized shallots.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large shallot, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped shallot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 8 minutes).
3. Add sliced morels and minced garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in broth, bringing mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let gravy thicken for 2-3 minutes or until desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Goat Cheese Crostini
A flavorful and elegant appetizer that combines the earthy sweetness of morels with the creaminess of goat cheese, all on a crispy baguette base.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add sliced morels to the skillet and cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a spoonful of goat cheese and a few pieces of sautéed morel mushrooms.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Herb Butter Steak Topping
Elevate your steak game with this decadent topping featuring earthy morel mushrooms and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sautéed morel mushrooms (see note)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine butter, sautéed morels, parsley, chives, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the topping over your preferred steak (grilled, pan-seared, or oven-roasted) during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Note: Sauté morel mushrooms in butter and a pinch of salt until fragrant and tender. Use immediately or store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Morel Mushroom and Caramelized Onion Pizza
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms with the sweetness of caramelized onions, all on a crispy pizza crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups mixed morel mushrooms, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion topping (see note)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a pan, cook sliced onions with olive oil over medium-low heat until caramelized. Set aside.
4. Top the pizza dough with morel mushrooms, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: Caramelized onion topping can be made ahead of time by cooking sliced onions in olive oil over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Morel Mushroom and White Wine Cream Sauce
Savor the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms paired with a rich white wine cream sauce, perfect for serving over pasta, risotto, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add morel mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add white wine; stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Reduce heat to low; add heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Morel Mushroom and Parmesan Polenta
Morel Mushroom and Parmesan Polenta
A creamy polenta infused with the earthy flavor of morel mushrooms and the salty richness of Parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal (polenta)
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups morel mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, reducing heat to medium.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the polenta is creamy and tender, stirring frequently.
- Add the butter, chopped onion, and morel mushrooms. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time:
About 30-35 minutes from start to finish.
Morel Mushroom and Sage Roasted Turkey
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of morels and sage with a perfectly roasted turkey, creating a show-stopping main course for your next special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup fresh morel mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, morels, sage, and garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Morel Mushroom and Brie Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with the earthy flavors of morel mushrooms and creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh morel mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup crumbled brie cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add morel mushrooms and garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stuff each pork chop with the mushroom mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Place butter on top of each stuffed pork chop.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven; let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these mouthwatering morel mushroom recipes! From creamy risottos and pan-seared delights, to pasta dishes, soups, and savory pastries, this collection has something for every gourmet meal. Indulge in flavors like truffle oil and wild rice pilaf, or try a morel-stuffed chicken breast with Gruyère cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an eager foodie, these 20 recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire your next cooking adventure.
