These sausage stuffed mushrooms are little bites of goodness! Juicy mushrooms filled with tasty sausage and cheese make for a perfect snack or appetizer.
I can’t resist popping these in my mouth whenever I cook them. They disappear fast—I bet your guest will love them too! They’re just so fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: White or cremini mushrooms are the best choices here. If you have portobello mushrooms, they work too, just make sure to adjust the cooking time as larger caps may need a bit longer.
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage is a good substitute that still brings flavor.
Cheeses: Cream cheese adds a nice creaminess while mozzarella melts beautifully. If you want a tangier flavor, try using goat cheese instead. Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a stronger kick.
Breadcrumbs: While panko gives a nice crunch, regular breadcrumbs work fine too. You can even crush up crackers for a different texture!
How Do You Cook the Sausage Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking the sausage correctly keeps it juicy. Here’s how:
- Use a skillet over medium heat and add the sausage when it’s hot.
- Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly and absorb flavors.
- Cook until no longer pink and drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Let the sausage mixture cool slightly before adding cheese; this helps with the mixing and prevents the cheese from melting too soon.
How to Make Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Mushrooms:
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and saved
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your preference), casing removed
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, including 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven will be ready to bake those tasty mushrooms when you’re done prepping!
2. Prepare the Mushrooms:
Gently clean each mushroom with a damp cloth. Carefully remove the stems and set the caps aside. Make sure to finely chop the stems, as they’ll be part of the stuffing mixture!
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and onion, sautéing them together until they become soft (about 3-4 minutes). Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until it’s fully browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed, and then take the skillet off the heat.
5. Mix the Stuffing:
Transfer the sausage mixture into a mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff the Mushrooms:
Generously spoon the filling into each mushroom cap. Make sure to pack it in nicely for a hearty bite!
7. Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms:
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish! Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops look golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re ready, remove the mushrooms from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. These sausage stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed warm, so dig in and share with friends and family!
Enjoy these warm, cheesy, savory sausage stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or party snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, like chicken sausage for a lighter option or spicy sausage for an extra kick. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the stuffing mixture!
Can I Make These Stuffed Mushrooms Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the sausage with a mix of cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, or even beans. For added flavor, include some chopped nuts, cheese, or spices in the filling!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Mushrooms?
Store any leftover mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Mushrooms?
Yes, you can freeze them! Before baking, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.