Stuffed Mushrooms: A Savory Appetizer Delight
Stuffed mushrooms are a classic appetizer, perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a simple weeknight treat. This recipe elevates the humble mushroom into a flavorful and satisfying bite. Originating from various culinary traditions, stuffed mushrooms have evolved into a versatile dish with endless possibilities for fillings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can tailor the ingredients to your liking, creating a unique flavor profile each time.
The flavor profile of these stuffed mushrooms is a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms, savory herbs, and creamy cheese. The filling, often a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan, provides a comforting texture and a burst of umami. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or one with sausage or bacon, the result is always a crowd-pleaser.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious and easy-to-make stuffed mushroom appetizer that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure with these delightful morsels!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large cremini or button mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or bacon
- Optional: 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation (15 minutes)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the mushrooms gently. Remove the stems and set them aside.
- Finely chop the mushroom stems.
Making the Filling (20 minutes)
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped mushroom stems to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked onion and mushroom mixture, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, salt, and pepper. If using, add cooked sausage or bacon and cream cheese. Mix well to combine.
Stuffing and Baking (25 minutes)
- Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Serving (5 minutes)
- Remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyere, or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- Protein Additions: Add cooked ground beef, chicken, or shrimp to the filling for a heartier appetizer.
- Vegetarian Options: Use vegetable broth instead of butter for a vegan version. Add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy twist.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a gluten-free option.
- Herb Variations: Try different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Grilling Option: Grill the stuffed mushrooms for a smoky flavor. Place them on a grill pan or aluminum foil and grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and the filling is heated through.
- Wine Pairing: Pair these stuffed mushrooms with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
These stuffed mushrooms are a versatile and delicious appetizer that is sure to impress. With their savory filling and earthy mushroom flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, you’re sure to create a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these delightful stuffed mushrooms!
Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Large cremini or button mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 0.5 cup Finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup Chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 0.25 cup Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or bacon (optional)
- 0.25 cup Cream cheese, softened (optional)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the mushrooms gently. Remove the stems and set them aside.
- Finely chop the mushroom stems.
Making the Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped mushroom stems to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked onion and mushroom mixture, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, salt, and pepper. If using, add cooked sausage or bacon and cream cheese. Mix well to combine.
Stuffing and Baking
- Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Serving
- Remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
