1. Prepare the Mushrooms:
1.1 Clean and Slice:
- Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice them into even-sized pieces (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick) for uniform cooking.
1.2 Season:
- In a large bowl, toss the mushroom slices with olive oil to coat them evenly.
1.3 Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (or rosemary), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mushrooms. Toss well to ensure the mushrooms are evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Air Fry the Mushrooms:
2.1 Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve an even, crispy texture.
2.2 Arrange in the Basket:
- Place the seasoned mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
2.3 Air Fry:
- Air fry the mushrooms at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The mushrooms should be golden brown and crispy.
3. Optional Parmesan Topping:
3.1 Add Parmesan:
- If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the mushrooms during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a bit of extra crispiness.
4. Serve:
4.1 Enjoy:
- Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and serve immediately. They make a great side dish, appetizer, or snack.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Mushrooms:
- Uniform Slicing: Slice mushrooms evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to allow air to circulate around the mushrooms for the best crispy result.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. You can add different herbs or spices based on your preferences.
Enjoy these Air Fryer Mushrooms for a quick, tasty treat that’s full of flavor and crunch. They’re an easy way to make a delicious, healthy snack or side dish in no time!