Stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer or side dish, bursting with flavor and perfect for entertaining. These savory little bites are made with mushrooms filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked until golden and tender. They’re simple to make yet impressive enough for any occasion.
Why Stuffed Mushrooms?
Stuffed mushrooms are versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a cheesy filling, a savory sausage mixture, or a vegetarian option, stuffed mushrooms are easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and always impress. Plus, they make a great addition to any party, holiday meal, or weeknight dinner.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed mushroom
- Number of Servings: 4 (makes about 16 mushrooms)
Ingredients for Stuffed Mushrooms
- 16 large white mushrooms (stems removed and reserved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Stuffed Mushrooms
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushroom caps with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems and set the caps aside. Finely chop the mushroom stems to use in the filling.
- Make the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom stems, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, packing it in gently. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the mushrooms from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Creative Variations to Try
- Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms: Add cooked Italian sausage to the filling for a heartier, more savory flavor.
- Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms: For a creamy and tangy variation, add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the filling mixture.
- Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: Add crispy bacon bits and extra cheese for a smoky and rich twist on the classic recipe.
- Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms: Swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese and use dairy-free mozzarella for a plant-based version.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms
- Size Matters: Choose mushrooms that are large enough to hold a good amount of filling but not so large that they become difficult to eat in one bite.
- Preheat the Oven: Be sure to preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Make Ahead: Stuffed mushrooms can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake them right before serving.
- Add Some Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle extra breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy topping.
FAQs About Stuffed Mushrooms
Q: Can I use other types of mushrooms?
A: Yes! While white button mushrooms are the most common, you can also use cremini, portobello, or baby bella mushrooms for a different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
A: Yes! You can freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. To bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then cook as directed.
Q: How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?
A: Be sure to cook out any moisture from the mushroom stems during the sautéing process. Also, don’t overstuff the mushrooms. Less is more when it comes to the filling.
Q: Can I add other fillings to stuffed mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the fillings. You can add crab meat, chicken, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Conclusion
Stuffed mushrooms are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering. With their rich, flavorful filling and tender mushroom caps, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to holiday celebrations