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Mushroom & Melty Gruyere Bruschetta

This quick and easy appetizer combines savory mushrooms, a hint of garlic, and melty Gruyere cheese on toasted ciabatta bread. It's perfect as a light dinner or a delicious starter for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Grill pan or skillet
  • Cast iron or sauté pan
  • Cheese grater
  • Baking sheet
  • Broiler

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf ciabatta bread about 1 lb
  • 1 clove garlic peeled and halved lengthwise
  • 1 lb assorted mushrooms e.g., cremini and white button
  • 2 tablespoons dry Sherry or Marsala
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves plus more for garnish
  • 1 ¼ cups Gruyere cheese grated
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil optional

Instructions

  • Grill the Bread: Slice the ciabatta bread in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half again to make 4 flat pieces. Preheat a grill pan over high heat and grill the bread, cut side down, until charred. While hot, rub the garlic over the bread to infuse flavor. Set aside.
    1 loaf ciabatta bread, 1 clove garlic
  • Prepare the Mushrooms: Wipe mushrooms with a clean cloth, trim the stems, and slice them.
    1 lb assorted mushrooms
  • Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat a cast iron or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms to the dry pan and sauté for about 5 minutes until they release moisture and brown. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. If mushrooms stick, add a splash of water or broth.
  • Add Flavor to Mushrooms: Once browned, add a tablespoon of sherry, allowing it to sizzle and evaporate. Stir to deglaze the pan and season with salt and fresh thyme leaves.
    2 tablespoons dry Sherry or Marsala, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Assemble the Bruschetta: Optionally brush the bread with olive oil. Spoon sautéed mushrooms and any pan juices onto the bread. Top with Gruyere cheese, a pinch of black pepper, and more fresh thyme.
    1 ¼ cups Gruyere cheese, 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • Broil and Serve: Set the oven to broil on high and place the baking sheet on a middle rack. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh thyme, slice into portions, and serve immediately.