Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

You’ve likely encountered stuffed mushrooms at parties or restaurants, but you may not realize how these bite-sized morsels have earned their place among the most versatile appetizers. Beyond their obvious appeal as finger food, mushrooms serve as nature’s perfect vessels for countless filling combinations, from classic cream cheese and herbs to innovative vegan alternatives. Their natural umami essence elevates any ingredients you choose, while their sturdy caps guarantee easy preparation and serving. Whether you’re hosting an elegant soirée or planning a casual gathering, understanding the art of stuffed mushrooms can transform your appetizer game entirely.

Overview

• Stuffed mushrooms combine cremini mushrooms with cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and breadcrumbs for a savory appetizer.
• Cook at 400°F for optimal results, after cleaning mushrooms with a damp towel and removing stems.
• The filling can be prepared 24 hours ahead, using room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
• Each serving of four mushrooms contains 180 calories and provides beneficial nutrients like vitamin D and selenium.
• Broil for 1-2 minutes after baking to achieve a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Classic Stuffed Mushrooms

A timeless appetizer that combines earthy cremini mushrooms with a savory filling of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized delights offer the perfect balance of textures and a rich umami flavor that makes them irresistible at any gathering.

Dating back to classical French cuisine, stuffed mushrooms have evolved into countless variations across global cuisines.

Ingredients

• 24 medium cremini mushrooms
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel and remove stems
3. Finely chop mushroom stems
4. Mix cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and chopped stems
5. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil
6. Fill each cap with cheese mixture
7. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter
8. Top each mushroom with breadcrumb mixture
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown

Top Tips

• Select similarly-sized mushrooms for even cooking
• Don’t wash mushrooms under running water; they absorb liquid easily
• Make filling up to 24 hours in advance
• Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing
• Pat mushroom caps dry before filling
• Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness

Variations

• Italian-Style: Add Italian sausage and mozzarella
• Seafood: Replace filling with crab meat and Old Bay seasoning
• Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese
• Mediterranean: Include sun-dried tomatoes and feta
• Portobello Mushrooms: Instead of Cremini mushrooms Portobello mushrooms work great

Nutritional Guide (per 4 mushrooms)

Calories: 180

Protein: 6g

Fat: 14g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 300mg

These mushrooms provide beneficial nutrients including vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium.

They’re relatively low in calories while offering satisfying protein and healthy fats when prepared as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Prepare Stuffed Mushrooms Ahead and Freeze Them?

You can freeze your prepared mushrooms for up to 3 months. For best storage methods, wrap them individually in plastic, then place in an airtight container. They’ll retain flavor when you thaw and reheat them.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Mushrooms Without Making Them Soggy?

Don’t rinse your mushrooms under water. Instead, gently wipe them with a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove dirt. For proper mushroom storage, keep them unwashed in a paper bag until you’re ready to use.

How Do I Prevent Stuffed Mushrooms From Becoming Watery While Baking?

To control moisture, you’ll want to pre-bake your caps upside down for 10 minutes before stuffing. This baking tip helps release excess liquid, ensuring your final dish won’t become watery during cooking.

Which Mushroom Varieties Work Best for Stuffing Besides Button Mushrooms?

You’ll love portobello caps for their meaty texture and large size, perfect for hearty portions. Baby bella and shiitake mushrooms are also excellent choices, offering rich flavors and sturdy shapes for stuffing.

Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives for the Traditional Meat-Based Stuffing?

You’ll love these vegetarian stuffing options: breadcrumbs mixed with garlic, herbs, and parmesan; quinoa with roasted vegetables; or spinach and ricotta. These flavor combinations guarantee you won’t miss the meat at all.

Before You Go

You’ll find stuffed mushrooms to be an ideal appetizer choice that combines elegance with practicality. They’re easily customizable, allowing you to accommodate various dietary preferences while maintaining their signature savory appeal. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a large gathering, these bite-sized delights offer the perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity. Your guests will appreciate their rich umami flavor and convenient serving size.