Outback's Mushroom Mystery: What's The Deal?

Outback Steakhouse's sauteed mushrooms are a popular side dish for steak lovers. The mushrooms are described as tiny button mushrooms mixed with chopped onions, with a meaty texture and earthy flavor. While there are many copycat recipes online, some patrons still crave the original dish. It is unclear if Outback still serves these mushrooms, as some sources suggest it has been years since they were on the menu. However, the popularity of these mushrooms has led to various recipes being shared, including those with added garlic or wine.

What are Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms?

Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms, or ''shrooms' as they are listed on the menu, are a popular side dish at the restaurant. They are often served with steak, but can also be enjoyed with a baked potato. The mushrooms are described as tiny button mushrooms mixed with chopped onions.

There are many copycat recipes for Outback Steakhouse's Sauteed Mushrooms online. Some recipes suggest using canned mushrooms, while others recommend fresh mushrooms, specifically small white button mushrooms, for a better flavor. The fresh mushrooms can be blanched before cooking to maintain their color and shape.

To make the mushrooms, butter is heated in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, the mushrooms and onions are added and seasoned with salt. The mushrooms are then sautéed until browned and cooked through. At this point, red wine and beef broth are added, and the dish is cooked for a few more minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.

Some variations of the recipe include using shallots instead of onions, and substituting Pinot noir for the red wine and beef broth. The mushrooms can also be sautéed in clarified butter for additional flavor.

How to make Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms

Sauteed mushrooms are a popular side dish at steakhouses, including Outback Steakhouse. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as crostini, omelets, and sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• Butter
• Olive oil (optional)
• Onions
• Beef broth
• Wine
• Mushrooms (fresh or jarred)
• Salt

Instructions:

• Place a skillet over medium heat and add butter. You can also use clarified butter for extra flavor.
• Once the butter has melted, add the onions and saute until they are caramelized.
• Pour in the beef broth and simmer for about 15 minutes.
• Add the mushrooms and continue to saute. You can use any variety of mushrooms you like, but buttons, creminis, and porcinis are particularly good. Fresh mushrooms will provide a better flavor.
• Sprinkle with salt.
• Pour in the wine and cook for a few additional minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.
• Serve hot with your favorite steak.

Enjoy the earthy flavors of the mushrooms complemented by the sharpness of the wine and the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

You can also add garlic to the recipe for an extra kick of flavor.

What to pair with Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms

Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some ideas on what to pair with these delicious mushrooms:

Steak

The earthy flavors and meaty texture of sauteed mushrooms complement steak dishes exceptionally well. Whether you're enjoying a broiled, grilled, or plain steak, the mushrooms enhance the flavor of the beef and make for a delightful dining experience.

Baked Potato

Sauteed mushrooms are an excellent topping for a baked potato. The combination provides a hearty and flavorful meal that is sure to satisfy.

Crostini

For a fancier appetizer, top a crostini with these mushrooms. The texture and taste of the sauteed mushrooms elevate the simple crostini, making it a sophisticated starter.

Omelet or Sandwich

Add a new depth of flavor to your breakfast or lunch by incorporating Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms. They are a tasty addition to an omelet or any sandwich, from grilled cheese to backyard burgers.

Other Ideas

These mushrooms are versatile and can be enjoyed with various other dishes. Try them with chicken, waffles, or even a simple side of caramelized onions. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as button, cremini, or Portobello, to create unique flavor profiles.

How to store leftover Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms

There are several ways to store leftover Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms. One option is to refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to do so gently in a skillet or in the microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

Another option is to freeze the mushrooms. To do this, place the mushrooms in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months. When ready to use, take out the desired amount of mushrooms and heat them in a pan over medium-high heat until warmed.

It is worth noting that some people advise against reheating cooked mushrooms as they believe it can cause illness. However, others have been reheating mushrooms without any problems, so the decision to store or discard leftovers is ultimately a personal preference.

Do Outback Steakhouse Sauteed Mushrooms still exist?

While I cannot confirm if Outback Steakhouse still serves sautéed mushrooms, I can tell you that they were a popular side dish for steak. Many people have tried to recreate the recipe at home, with varying degrees of success. Some say that their homemade versions taste just like the ones from Outback, while others feel that something is missing.

The recipe involves sautéing mushrooms and onions in clarified butter, with some recipes calling for the addition of wine, beef broth, shallots, olive oil, and seasonings. The mushrooms are described as tiny button mushrooms, and the dish is known for its earthy flavors and meaty texture, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes beyond steak, such as crostini, omelets, and sandwiches.

The popularity of Outback Steakhouse's sautéed mushrooms has led to numerous copycat recipes being shared online, with some people experimenting with different ingredients like garlic, buttermilk, dry mustard, and paprika. While some customers have not visited the restaurant in years, they still fondly recall the taste of these mushrooms, indicating that they were a well-loved menu item.

Although I cannot provide a definitive answer regarding the current availability of sautéed mushrooms at Outback Steakhouse, the existence of these copycat recipes suggests that the dish has made an impression on diners, who continue to try and replicate its unique flavor.

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