Indulge in the irresistible flavors of crab stuffed mushrooms, a delightful appetizer that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the sweetness of crab meat. This dish is not just a visual treat but also a burst of flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. With its creamy filling and savory notes, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 12 large mushrooms
– 1 cup crab meat
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 stuffed mushrooms) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of protein, 18g of fat, 6g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- In a bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill each mushroom cap generously with the crab mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use shrimp instead of crab, or substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter option. Additionally, you can add spices like Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick.
Serving and Pairings
These crab stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light salad. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as finger food at parties.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the mushrooms in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These stuffed mushrooms can be frozen before baking, but it’s best to bake them fresh for the best texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overstuff the mushrooms; they can break.
- Ensure the crab meat is fresh to avoid a fishy taste.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the flavor.
- Watch the baking time to prevent burning.
- Let the mushrooms cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Helpful Tips
- Use large mushrooms for easy stuffing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add diced bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Serve with a dipping sauce for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make crab stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and fill the mushrooms a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving.
What type of mushrooms are best for stuffing?
Large button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms work best for stuffing, as they hold up well and have a nice texture.
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat can be used, but fresh or frozen crab is recommended for the best flavor.
How do I know when the mushrooms are done?
The mushrooms are done when they are golden brown on top and the filling is bubbly.
Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts can enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
Conclusion
Crab stuffed mushrooms are a delightful dish that will elevate any occasion. Their rich, creamy filling combined with the savory taste of mushrooms makes them irresistible. This easy recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, ensuring delicious results every time. Enjoy these tasty bites at your next gathering!
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- In a bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill each mushroom cap generously with the crab mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
