Creamy Mushroom Barley Skillet

Name: Creamy Mushroom Barley Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup white wine; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Balanced Inspiration

I love making this Creamy Mushroom Barley Skillet on busy weeknights. It's one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and satisfaction to our table without taking hours to prepare. The nutty barley perfectly absorbs the rich flavors of the mushrooms, creating a creamy texture that is both hearty and delicious. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies! This dish has become a staple in our home, and I can’t wait for you to try it.

Created by

Jacqueline Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:22:37.092Z

When I first tried my hand at making a creamy mushroom dish, I was amazed by how simple the process was while being able to create such rich flavors. By using a blend of [button]cremini and shiitake mushrooms, the dish gains a lovely depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. I love to finish it with fresh herbs, which really elevates the dish.

Finding the right balance of creaminess without it becoming too heavy was key. I opted for vegetable broth and a splash of white wine, which adds a lovely acidity that brightens the entire dish. This method allows the barley to soak up all those flavors, making every bite enjoyable and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with creamy goodness
Nutritious barley that adds heartiness to the dish
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy evenings

      

Why Barley is a Star Ingredient

Barley is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in this Creamy Mushroom Barley Skillet. Its unique, nutty flavor complements the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully, creating a balanced dish. Additionally, barley has a chewy texture that offers a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce. When cooked properly, the barley absorbs the surrounding flavors, making each bite a delightful experience.

If you're new to cooking with barley, remember that it requires a longer cooking time than rice or pasta. Make sure to keep an eye on it while it simmers; it should become tender but not mushy. For a heavier, more filling dish, consider using hulled barley instead of pearl barley, although this will extend your cooking time.

Selecting the Right Mushrooms

The type of mushrooms you use can dramatically affect the flavor profile of your dish. While mixed mushrooms (like cremini, shiitake, and button) provide a nice variety, feel free to personalize your selection. For a richer taste, opt for more shiitake or portobello mushrooms; their meaty texture and deep umami flavor are hard to beat.

Also, ensure your mushrooms are fresh. Look for ones that are firm and dry—avoid those that are slimy or bruised. If you end up with dried mushrooms, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes prior to cooking. They will rehydrate beautifully and add depth to your creamy skillet.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy mushroom barley skillet is excellent for meal prep. You can cook the barley and sauté the vegetables a day in advance. Keep everything in the refrigerator, then simply combine and heat before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the skillet to loosen up the sauce, and warm it over medium-low heat until heated through. However, be cautious about reheating too many times as it may alter the creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup pearl barley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup white wine
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Barley

In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the pearl barley and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and sauté until the mushrooms are browned, about 7-8 minutes.

Combine and Creamify

Pour in the vegetable broth and white wine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Mix with Barley

Fold the cooked barley into the skillet, mixing well to coat it with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth. Feel free to add spinach or kale for extra nutrition!

Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations

Although this recipe is already vegetarian, you can easily make it vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Both alternatives provide creaminess without the dairy. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning, as these substitutes can alter the overall flavor profile slightly.

For added protein, consider incorporating legumes, such as chickpeas or white beans. They can be mixed in during the ‘Combine and Creamify’ step, adding nutrition while enhancing the dish's heartiness.

Flavor Enhancements

If you love bold flavors, consider adding a splash of truffle oil at the end for an elevated finishing touch. Just a teaspoon mixed in at the final stage of cooking can create a luxurious aromatic quality. You might also try adding a dash of soy sauce for umami depth.

For a touch of acidity that balances the creaminess, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish. It complements the earthy mushrooms and cuts through the richness nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mushroom sauce and barley separately and combine them before serving.

→ What kind of mushrooms should I use?

You can use a combination of cremini, shiitake, or any mushrooms you prefer.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free barley or quinoa instead of pearl barley.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.