These **Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese** are a decadent, savory appetizer that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Juicy mushroom caps are filled with a rich, creamy sausage and cheese mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, or dinner parties, these stuffed mushrooms are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sausage, garlic, herbs, and cream cheese creates a flavorful bite that pairs beautifully with wine or cocktails.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed mushrooms
- Servings: 12-16 stuffed mushrooms
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Mushrooms:
- 16 large white or cremini mushrooms
- ½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping, optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparing the Mushrooms:
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Clean mushrooms: Gently wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove dirt.
- Remove stems: Carefully twist and pull the stems from the mushrooms. Chop the stems finely and set aside.
Making the Filling:
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and mushroom stems: Stir in minced garlic and the chopped mushroom stems. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: Remove from heat and mix in softened cream cheese, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir until fully combined.
Stuffing the Mushrooms:
- Fill the mushroom caps: Spoon the sausage mixture into each mushroom, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each stuffed mushroom for an extra cheesy finish.
Baking the Mushrooms:
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving:
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips for the Best Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
- Choose Large Mushrooms: White button or cremini mushrooms work best.
- Don’t Overfill: Press the filling gently to avoid overflowing.
- Use High-Quality Sausage: Italian sausage adds the best flavor.
- For Extra Crispiness: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Stuffed Mushrooms: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Bacon-Wrapped Mushrooms: Wrap each mushroom in a slice of bacon before baking.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed spinach and extra Parmesan.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Prepare and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms? Yes! Freeze unbaked mushrooms and bake directly from frozen. How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
These **Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese** are rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a party or a family dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today!