Button Mushroom Substitute

When it comes to mushrooms they don’t all taste or look the same. If your looking for a button mushroom substitute you can’t go wrong with the list we have for you.

The thing is these mushrooms are all part of the same family of Agaricus bisporus mushrooms they are just different stages of aging.

They do have a different look and taste and are going to give you the differences for your next recipe that calls for button mushrooms.

Best button mushroom substitute

Button mushrooms or you might know them as white mushrooms are easy to find substitutes for. In fact, buttons, cremini (AKA baby Bella), and portabella mushrooms are all the same mushrooms, just picked at different maturity stages.

White mushrooms are considered the toddler of mushrooms, creminis are the teenagers and the portabellas are the adults.

While they do differ in taste and texture slightly, you can use any of these to substitute for button mushrooms.

1. Cremini Mushrooms

As far as size comparison goes, cremini mushrooms are about the same size as white button mushrooms. These are brown-capped mushrooms. You may also see them marketed as “Baby Bella’s” as well.

They are browner because of their age but will be soft like button mushrooms. Cremini mushrooms are very versatile and have a mild flavor. These are great on pizza, salads, or pasta.

2. Portobello mushrooms

Like I mentioned before portabella mushrooms are just adult versions of the button mushrooms. You will find that the older and bigger they get the more rich and meaty they become.

However, portabella mushrooms make a great substitute for button mushrooms in just about any recipe. They are also commonly found in most grocery stores all year round so they are just as accessible as white mushrooms.

3. Shiitake mushrooms

Now, shiitake mushrooms are more savory than a button mushroom or a portabella. These are a great substitute is soups because they can withstand longer cooking times without getting too cooked and mushy.

You can use either dried shiitake mushrooms, which are easier to find, or fresh ones as well. Either way, they are a great substitute for your recipe that calls for button mushrooms.