These chorizo stuffed mushrooms are little bites of joy! With spicy chorizo and creamy cheese filling, they pack a punch of flavor in every bite.
Honestly, they’re the perfect party snack! I love popping these tasty morsels in my mouth—you’ll find it hard to eat just one! 🍄🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: Use large button or cremini mushrooms for best results. If you want a twist, portobello mushrooms work well too! They have a stronger flavor and meaty texture.
Chorizo: Fresh chorizo gives a rich, spicy flavor. If you prefer a milder option, turkey or chicken chorizo can be great substitutes. Even a plant-based chorizo can work if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice depth, but feel free to swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or any cheese you love! Vegan cheese can also fit well if you’re avoiding dairy.
Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. You could use other colors or even jalapeños for an extra kick.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Mushrooms?
Preparing the mushrooms correctly is key to a delicious bite. Cleaning them properly and removing stems ensures more space for the filling. Here’s how:
- Lightly wipe each mushroom with a damp paper towel to remove dirt.
- Carefully twist off or cut out the stems, setting them aside for the filling mix.
- Make sure the caps are hollowed out enough to hold a flavorful filling but not too thin to hold their shape during baking.
Following these steps will ensure your stuffed mushrooms are both tasty and visually appealing!
How Can I Make the Filling Extra Flavorful?
The filling is where the magic happens, so take care in preparing it. Here are tips to enhance flavor:
- Cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Let the chorizo brown a bit in the pan for extra texture and flavor depth.
- Don’t rush adding mushrooms stems; let them cook until they release moisture. This keeps the filling from getting soggy!
- Season at the end after all ingredients are combined to adjust flavors to your liking.
These tips will elevate your chorizo stuffed mushrooms from great to unforgettable!
Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16-20 large button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms
- 8 oz (225g) fresh chorizo sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheese of your choice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. That’s not too long for a delicious and impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake those yummy mushrooms!
2. Prepare the Mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms by wiping them gently with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set the caps aside. Make sure to finely chop the stems as you’ll use them in the filling.
3. Cook the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until everything becomes softened and fragrant.
4. Add the Mushroom Stems
Next, add the finely chopped mushroom stems to the skillet. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to cook down and the moisture to evaporate.
5. Add the Chorizo
Now, it’s time to add the crumbled chorizo sausage. Stir it in with the veggies and cook until the chorizo is browned and slightly crispy, which should take about 6-7 minutes.
6. Season the Filling
Season your chorizo mixture with smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix in the chopped parsley or cilantro, and then remove the skillet from heat.
7. Cheese It Up (Optional)
If you’re using cheese, stir in the grated Parmesan or shredded cheese now for an extra creamy texture. It’s optional, but it adds some amazing depth of flavor!
8. Prepare the Caps for Filling
Brush the hollow sides of the mushroom caps with the remaining olive oil, and lay them bottom-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Fill Those Mushrooms!
Generously spoon the chorizo filling into each mushroom cap, piling it up nicely so it’s full. Don’t be shy; these bites are meant to be bursting with flavor!
10. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The mushrooms should turn tender, and the topping will be golden and slightly crispy.
11. Garnish and Serve
Once they’re done baking, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with additional chopped parsley or cilantro. They not only look great but will smell incredible too!
12. Enjoy!
Serve the chorizo stuffed mushrooms warm and watch them disappear quickly at your gathering. They’re sure to impress friends and family with their bold flavors!
Enjoy indulging in these spicy, savory bites packed with chorizo goodness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a milder flavor, turkey or chicken sausage works well. You can also try a plant-based chorizo for a vegetarian option, which will still give a tasty kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare These Mushrooms Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and fill the mushroom caps a few hours in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, pop them in the oven to enjoy fresh!
What Can I Serve with Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms?
These stuffed mushrooms are great as an appetizer but can be paired with a fresh salad or served over rice or pasta for a light meal. They also pair beautifully with a garlic aioli or a zesty chimichurri for dipping!