When you think about stuffed mushrooms, it’s easy to get excited about the dish itself, but don’t overlook what might accompany them. Picture this: a glass of crisp white wine, perhaps a Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the richness of stuffed mushrooms. If wine isn’t your style, a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon can cleanse your palate perfectly.
You could also serve these tasty bites alongside a vibrant salad — try a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinegar. And if you’re feeling fancy, a charcuterie board loaded with cheeses and cured meats will enhance the whole experience.
What Are Stuffed Mushrooms?
Stuffed mushrooms are hollowed-out mushroom caps filled with a delectable mixture, often including cheese, herbs, and other flavorful tidbits. Depending on recipes, you might find various sophisticated combinations. The classic rendition usually involves ingredients like panko breadcrumbs for crunch and adds a bit of creaminess with cheeses like cream cheese or pecorino Romano.
How Do They Taste?
The first bite of a stuffed mushroom transports you to comfort food heaven. The exterior is slightly crisp while the inside is warm and rich. You’ll often experience the earthy flavor of mushrooms layered with the creamy, tangy notes from cheese.
The addition of garlic provides a kick that dances on your taste buds, while herbs bring freshness. They’re a delightful combination that satisfies both savory and umami cravings in the most delightful way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed mushrooms are not just food. They’re an experience. With a single dish, you can impress your guests at a dinner party, or whip them up for a cozy night in. Aside from their flavor, stuffed mushrooms are fantastic for customization.
You can play with the ingredients based on dietary needs or personal preferences. They can easily accommodate vegetarians, and you can add meats should you desire an extra punch of flavor. Plus, they’re great for meal prep — make a batch ahead of time, and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients
To whip up these scrumptious stuffed mushrooms, you will need:
20 to 24 large cremini mushrooms, stems removed
½ cup crisp panko crumbs
2 tablespoons cream cheese (added for a richer, creamier filling)
½ cup freshly grated pecorino Romano cheese
¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, about 4 pieces
2 tablespoons lightly toasted pine nuts
½ cup finely minced flat-leaf parsley, plus extra for garnish
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest (added for brightness and balance)
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus a little more for sprinkling
Freshly cracked black pepper
A pinch or two of red chili flakes, optional
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Step by Step Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed mushroom masterpiece.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Your mushrooms will love that warm embrace when they’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start with your cremini mushrooms. Carefully remove the stems and set them aside for later use. Gently clean the caps using a damp paper towel. A little dirt never hurt anyone, but let’s keep it classy.
Step 3: Create the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cream cheese, grated pecorino Romano, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, minced parsley, garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir everything until fully incorporated. The mixture should have a lovely texture — not too dry but not overly wet either.
Step 4: Stuff Those Mushrooms
Take a teaspoon or your trusty fingers and fill each mushroom cap with the delicious filling. Press the filling down gently to ensure it sticks and creates a lovely mound. Don’t be afraid to heap it on!
Step 5: Bake
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over the tops of each mushroom. Pop that tray in the oven and let the magic happen. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once removed from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some extra minced parsley on top for that final touch. Serve them warm, and be prepared for compliments!
Tips for Making Stuffed Mushrooms
Making stuffed mushrooms can be straightforward and fun. Here are five tips to elevate your cooking experience:
Choose the Right Mushrooms: Opt for cremini or portobello mushrooms; they have a more robust flavor compared to white button mushrooms.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper go a long way. Season your mixture properly for a well-rounded flavor.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to swap out ingredients. Adding cooked sausage or spinach can create an entirely different flavor profile.
Chill Before Baking: If you have time, let the stuffed mushrooms chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking. You want that lovely golden color but not overcooked mushiness.
Nutrition Information
Each stuffed mushroom is a delightful burst of flavor. On average, each mushroom contains about 70 calories. They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the mushrooms and added veggies. The pecorino Romano adds calcium, while the pine nuts contribute healthy fats. Overall, these are a smart snack option that won’t compromise your dietary goals.
Nutritional breakdown per mushroom:
Calories: 70
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
How Do You Store Stuffed Mushrooms?
Storing stuffed mushrooms is a breeze. After they have cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They can safely be stored in the fridge for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen — no need to thaw!
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Stuffed Mushrooms?
Customization is the name of the game with stuffed mushrooms. Here are five excellent substitutions you can make:
Go Vegan: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or tofu-based cheese to keep that creamy texture while staying plant-based.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko for those keen on a gluten-free lifestyle without sacrificing texture.
Add Some Meat: Crumbled sausage can bring an extra layer of flavor. Just make sure to cook the sausage first and drain excess fat.
Spice it Up: Swap regular panko for spicy panko breadcrumbs for a kick.
Switch Up the Cheese: If pecorino Romano isn’t your thing, feel free to try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
Stuffed mushrooms offer a delicious way to explore flavors while being straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a gathering, these bites are bound to impress. They’re versatile, rich in flavor, and leave plenty of room for creativity. So go ahead, get your hands a little dirty, and enjoy every step of the process. Your taste buds will thank you!
You’ll also like the following Recipes!
Stuffed Mushrooms – Simple Easy Meals
If you’ve ever found yourself at a gathering, eyeing that grand platter of stuffed mushrooms, you know there’s a certain magnetic pull to this delightful appetizer. Trust me, I’ve been to enough parties to recognize a good crowd-pleaser.
What’s not to love? Tender mushrooms cradling a savory filling, packed with flavor, are just waiting to make their way into your mouth. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also versatile and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Your mushrooms will love that warm embrace when they're ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms
-
Start with your cremini mushrooms. Carefully remove the stems and set them aside for later use. Gently clean the caps using a damp paper towel. A little dirt never hurt anyone, but let’s keep it classy.
Step 3: Create the Filling
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cream cheese, grated pecorino Romano, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, minced parsley, garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir everything until fully incorporated. The mixture should have a lovely texture — not too dry but not overly wet either.
Step 4: Stuff Those Mushrooms
-
Take a teaspoon or your trusty fingers and fill each mushroom cap with the delicious filling. Press the filling down gently to ensure it sticks and creates a lovely mound. Don't be afraid to heap it on!
Step 5: Bake
-
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over the tops of each mushroom. Pop that tray in the oven and let the magic happen. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
-
Once removed from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some extra minced parsley on top for that final touch. Serve them warm, and be prepared for compliments!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 70kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5g8%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Opt for cremini or portobello mushrooms; they have a more robust flavor compared to white button mushrooms.
- Don't Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper go a long way. Season your mixture properly for a well-rounded flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to swap out ingredients. Adding cooked sausage or spinach can create an entirely different flavor profile.
- Chill Before Baking: If you have time, let the stuffed mushrooms chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking. You want that lovely golden color but not overcooked mushiness.
