Looking for a scrumptious appetizer that’s sure to impress? Look no further than stuffed mushrooms! These bite-sized treats are bursting with flavor and are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a savory snack. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple and delicious stuffed mushrooms recipe that will have your taste buds singing.
Ingredients for Stuffed Mushrooms
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- Fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or white button)
- Cream cheese
- Italian sausage
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Bread crumbs
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to customize your recipe with additional ingredients such as:
- Spinach
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Bacon
- Herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
- Different types of cheese (such as mozzarella or goat cheese)
Preparation
Cleaning Mushrooms
Begin by cleaning the mushrooms. Remove any dirt or debris by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel. Carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms, making sure not to break the caps.
Making the Filling
Next, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant. In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage and garlic with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and any additional ingredients you’d like to include. Mix until everything is well combined.
Stuffing the Mushrooms
Using a spoon, carefully fill each mushroom cap with the filling mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re evenly spaced.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Serving
Once baked, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs, if desired, and serve warm.
Variations
Get creative with your stuffed mushrooms by trying out different variations. For a vegetarian option, omit the Italian sausage and add extra veggies like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Tips and Tricks
To prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy, avoid washing them under running water. Instead, use a damp paper towel to gently wipe away any dirt.
Make sure to remove the gills from the mushroom caps before stuffing them to create more room for the filling.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the recipe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, stuffed mushrooms are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone craving more.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of mushrooms?
A: While cremini and white button mushrooms are commonly used for stuffed mushrooms, you can experiment with other varieties like Portobello or shiitake for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I prepare stuffed mushrooms in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and clean the mushrooms in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator and assemble the stuffed mushrooms just before baking.
Q: How long can I store leftover stuffed mushrooms?
A: Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
A: While it’s possible to freeze stuffed mushrooms, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, do so before baking, and then bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Q: Can I make vegetarian stuffed mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and customize the filling with your favorite veggies and cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
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Best Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 strips of bacon, regular cut
- 4 oz plain cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or freshly grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 2 Tbsp parsley leaves, finely chopped plus more for garnish
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 24 cremini mushrooms, about 1 pound
Instructions
- Prep the mushrooms by cleaning them with a damp paper towel (See Note 1). Pinch the stems to remove them. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a rimmed baking sheet with oil and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon for about 3 minutes per side, until crisp and browned. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Chop into small bits and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the filling: cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix and mash the ingredients together, then add half of the bacon bits. Continue stirring until incorporated. Divide the filling evenly between the mushrooms (use a small cookie scoop or about 2 teaspoons of stuffing per mushroom). Sprinkle the remaining bacon bits over the top.
- Arrange the mushrooms evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, and bake for 15 minutes, until the mushrooms are softened and the tops have started to brown in spots (See Note 2.) Transfer the mushrooms to a serving platter, sprinkle with more parsley, and serve.
Notes
