Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed Mushrooms, with their elegant presentation and delightful combination of flavors and textures, are a versatile appetizer that transcends culinary boundaries. This recipe takes the simplicity of mushrooms and elevates them to a gourmet level by filling them with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, cheeses, herbs, and sometimes, savory meats. The result is a bite-sized masterpiece that marries the umami of mushrooms with a rich, savory stuffing.

Overview of the Recipe:

The magic of Stuffed Mushrooms lies in the symphony of ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of taste and texture. This versatile dish allows for endless variations in the stuffing, making it adaptable to personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether served as an appetizer at a formal gathering or a casual get-together, Stuffed Mushrooms are sure to impress with their earthy elegance and robust flavor profile.

Ingredients and Their Benefits:

1. Mushrooms: The star of the dish, mushrooms provide a unique umami flavor and a meaty texture. They are low in calories, rich in vitamins, and contain antioxidants that contribute to overall health.
2. Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a creamy and indulgent texture to the stuffing. It is a good source of fat and protein, making the dish more satisfying.
3. Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add a crunchy element to the stuffing and help bind the ingredients together. Opting for whole wheat breadcrumbs can increase fiber content.
4. Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty and savory kick to the stuffing. It is a rich source of calcium and protein.
5. Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile of the stuffing, providing depth and a savory undertone.
6. Herbs (Parsley, Thyme): Fresh herbs contribute brightness and freshness to the dish. They also offer additional layers of flavor without adding excessive calories.
7. Olive Oil: Used for brushing the mushrooms before baking, olive oil adds a touch of richness and helps achieve a golden brown finish.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Recipe by Puredishes.com

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Stuffed Mushrooms are a sophisticated and flavorful appetizer, featuring earthy mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs. This recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées.

Ingredients

• 24 medium-sized mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat for a healthier option)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Olive oil for brushing

Directions

• Preheat the Oven:
  Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the Mushrooms:
  Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt.
  Carefully remove the stems from each mushroom, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
• Prepare the Stuffing:
  In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper.
  Mix the ingredients until well combined, forming a thick and cohesive stuffing.
• Stuff the Mushrooms:
  Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each mushroom cavity with the stuffing mixture, pressing gently to ensure it is compact.
• Brush with Olive Oil:
  Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
  Lightly brush the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil. This helps achieve a golden brown finish during baking.
• Bake in the Oven:
  Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender, and the stuffing is golden and slightly crispy.
• Serve Warm:
  Remove the Stuffed Mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
  Arrange on a serving platter and serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Experiment with different mushroom varieties, such as cremini or shiitake, for varied flavors.
• For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture.