Print

Ina Garten Mussels with Basil Breadcrumbs Recipe

Ina Garten Mussels with Basil Breadcrumbs

Mussels with Basil Breadcrumbs is a dish where fresh mussels are steamed in a flavorful broth and topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture made with basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is finished under the broiler, creating a golden, crunchy topping that enhances the natural sweetness of the mussels.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mussels:

  • 2 pounds fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Basil Breadcrumbs:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mussels

  • Clean the mussels: Scrub the mussels under cold water and remove any beards. Discard any mussels that are open and do not close when tapped.

Step 2: Cook the Mussels

  • Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Steam the mussels: Pour in the white wine, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then add the mussels. Cover and steam for 5–7 minutes until the mussels open.
  • Remove from heat: Stir in butter and toss the mussels in the broth. Discard any mussels that remain closed.

Step 3: Make the Basil Breadcrumbs

  • Toast the breadcrumbs: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  • Mix with herbs and cheese: Transfer to a bowl and mix with chopped basil, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Broil the Mussels

  • Preheat the broiler: Set your oven to broil.
  • Arrange the mussels: Transfer the mussels to a baking dish, spooning some of the cooking broth over them.
  • Top with breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the basil breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mussels.
  • Broil until golden: Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

  • Plate and enjoy: Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.