1-First Step: Prep and mise en place (about 10 minutes) Start by washing the mushrooms quickly under cool running water to remove dirt. Pat them very dry with paper towels or spin in a salad spinner. Removing as much moisture as possible prevents steaming and helps the edges crisp. Trim any tough stem ends. For uniform cooking, cut each mushroom in half; if some are very large, quarter them so all pieces are about the same size. This promotes even browning in the air fryer.

2-Second Step: Season and toss In a medium bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Add the mushroom pieces and toss until each piece is evenly coated. Let them sit for 2 to 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3-Third Step: Arrange in the air fryer Arrange the mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Crowd-free arrangement matters: overcrowding causes mushrooms to steam rather than crisp. If you have a smaller unit, divide into batches; these amounts work best in a 6-quart air fryer with one flat single layer.

4-Fourth Step: Cook at 400°F Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Air fry the mushrooms for 10 minutes, then pause to shake the basket and stir the pieces so they brown evenly. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until they have browned with crisped edges. Total cook time is roughly 13 to 15 minutes, but watch closely during the final minutes because air fryer heat varies.

5-Final Step: Finish and serve Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and serve immediately for best texture. These mushrooms are a great side for grilled proteins or pasta, or spooned over toasted bread as a quick appetizer.

6-Wash and thoroughly dry the baby bella mushrooms, removing as much moisture as possible.

7-Cut each mushroom in half or into quarters if very large, aiming for uniform size for even cooking.

8-In a bowl, toss mushroom pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until evenly coated.

9-Arrange mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket (use batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).

10-Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then shake the basket and stir.

11-Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until browned with crisped edges; monitor closely to avoid burning.

12-Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.