Indulge in the rich and creamy flavor of stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese, a perfect appetizer for any occasion. These bite-sized delights are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a favorite at gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create these delicious stuffed mushrooms!
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 mushrooms) contains approximately 250 calories, 18g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person and offers a satisfying, creamy treat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Chop the stems finely and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems to the cheese mixture and combine well.
- Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the mushrooms with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter option, or use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Adding cooked sausage or spinach can enhance the flavor and texture.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine. They make a great addition to a charcuterie board and can be served alongside dips and chips.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to a month before baking.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overstuffing the mushrooms can lead to spillage during baking.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Using old mushrooms may affect flavor and texture.
- Forgetting to season the filling can make them bland.
- Not allowing the cream cheese to soften will make mixing difficult.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
- Use a pastry bag for easy filling of the mushrooms.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushrooms and fill them a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
What types of mushrooms are best for stuffing?
Large button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms work best due to their size and sturdiness.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or gouda for unique flavors.
Do I need to cook the mushrooms before stuffing them?
No, there’s no need to pre-cook the mushrooms; they will cook through in the oven.
How do I know when they are done baking?
They’re done when the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be around 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Perfect for any gathering or as a special snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With easy preparation and delicious results, it’s a must-try for mushroom lovers!
Stuffed Mushrooms With Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 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.
- Chop the stems finely and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems to the cheese mixture and combine well.
- Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the mushrooms with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
