Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty treat! These bite-sized goodies are filled with a scrumptious mix of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Whenever I make these, I can’t stop popping them in my mouth. They’re just too good! Plus, they’re super easy to whip up for any gathering. Everyone loves a little mushroom magic! 🍄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: I recommend using cremini or white button mushrooms because they’re flavorful and have a nice bite. If you want a smaller version, baby bella mushrooms work great too! Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the stuffing.
Cream Cheese: This is what gives the filling its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or even cottage cheese blended until smooth.
Cheeses: Parmesan adds a nice salty touch, while mozzarella makes it gooey. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens up the flavor. Substitute with basil or chives if you prefer. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch, but use half the amount since they’re more concentrated.
Bacon: This is totally optional, but it adds a delicious crunch. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using chopped walnuts or skip it altogether.
How Do I Stuff the Mushrooms Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing mushrooms can be a little tricky, but it’s all about having the right approach. Follow these steps to help keep things tidy:
- Use a small spoon or a pastry bag to fill the mushroom caps for better control. If using a spoon, scoop and press the filling down gently.
- Mound the filling slightly above the rim of the mushroom. Don’t worry— they’ll hold up well while cooking!
- Keep the tops even or gently rounded. This keeps them looking pretty and helps with even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Space them out to ensure even browning.
With these simple tips, you’ll get perfectly stuffed mushrooms without the mess! Enjoy your cooking!
Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mushrooms:
- 16 medium cremini or white button mushrooms
For the Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stuffed mushrooms recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to enjoy these scrumptious bites! Perfect for a quick snack or delightful appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get that oven warming up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This helps the mushrooms cook perfectly while they bake.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms:
Take a damp paper towel and gently clean the mushrooms to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set the caps aside. Make sure to chop the stems finely as we will use them in the stuffing!
3. Sauté the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re softened and you can start smelling the garlic. Don’t forget to take them off the heat afterward!
4. Combine the Filling Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together your sautéed mushroom stems, cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, chopped bacon (if you want that crispy flavor!), parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend it all until it’s smooth and creamy. This is the star of our dish!
5. Stuff the Mushrooms:
Now for the fun part—stuffing! Take each mushroom cap and fill it generously with the creamy mixture, letting it mound a little on top. They should look delightful!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place your stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet or any oven-safe dish. Make sure they have a bit of space between them for even cooking.
7. Bake:
Pop those mushrooms into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the tops are golden brown and bubbling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Enjoy these delightful stuffed mushrooms as a perfect appetizer or snack! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Mushrooms?
Absolutely! While cremini and white button mushrooms are popular choices, you can also try portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that larger mushrooms may require a bit more filling!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make stuffed mushrooms vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and ensure your cheeses are rennet-free. You can add more veggies like diced bell peppers or spinach to the stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can Leftover Stuffed Mushrooms Be Stored?
Yes! Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, just stuff the mushroom caps and bake as directed for a quick and delicious appetizer!