When I first stumbled upon this stuffed mushrooms recipe, I was intrigued by its simplicity and potential to please a crowd. My family, always eager to try new culinary creations, was in for a treat. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is nothing short of delightful. From the first bite, the savory filling with its aromatic herbs and creamy cheese enveloped in the tender mushroom caps had everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re serving these at a dinner party or as a cozy appetizer for a family meal, these stuffed mushrooms are guaranteed to impress. The recipe’s versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring it becomes a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

To create these delectable stuffed mushrooms, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of large button mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• ¼ cup of finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup of cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the earthy mushrooms perfectly.

Instructions

Making these stuffed mushrooms is a straightforward process, ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and remove the stems. Set the caps aside.
3. Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
5. Add the chopped mushroom stems to the skillet, cooking until they are tender and most of their moisture has evaporated.
6. In a bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with breadcrumbs, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
7. Fill each mushroom cap with a generous amount of the stuffing mixture.
8. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are tender.
9. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

These steps ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields approximately 20 stuffed mushrooms, with each serving containing around 100 calories. The nutritional profile makes them a relatively guilt-free indulgence, allowing you to enjoy them as a satisfying appetizer or snack.

Preparation Time

The preparation and cooking time for these stuffed mushrooms is approximately 45 minutes. This includes cleaning and preparing the mushrooms, cooking the filling, and baking the final product. The recipe is efficient, making it ideal for busy cooks who want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Stuffed mushrooms are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions:

• As an appetizer at a dinner party or gathering.
• As a side dish accompanying roasted meats or poultry.
• On a platter with a variety of other finger foods for a casual get-together.
• As a vegetarian option at a barbecue or picnic.
• Paired with a crisp green salad for a light meal.

Each serving suggestion enhances the enjoyment of these savory bites.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your stuffed mushrooms turn out perfectly every time:

1. Choose the right mushrooms: Opt for large button or cremini mushrooms, as they are sturdy enough to hold the filling.
2. Don’t overstuff: While it may be tempting, overfilling the mushrooms can cause the stuffing to spill out during baking.
3. Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients such as cooked sausage, chopped spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
4. Prep in advance: You can prepare the stuffing mixture and clean the mushrooms ahead of time, making assembly quick and easy.
5. Serve warm: These mushrooms are best enjoyed warm, so serve them promptly after baking for the best flavor experience.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about the stuffed mushrooms recipe:

1. Can I use different types of mushrooms?
   Yes, you can use a variety of mushrooms such as portobello or shiitake, but you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on their size and thickness.
2. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
   You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor.
3. How do I store leftover stuffed mushrooms?
   Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their texture.
4. Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
   It is not recommended to freeze them, as the texture of the mushrooms can become mushy upon thawing.
5. Are stuffed mushrooms suitable for a vegan diet?
   To make them vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.

These suggestions and answers are designed to help you create the most delightful stuffed mushrooms, ensuring a delightful dining experience for you and your guests.