Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms have become a staple in our home, and for good reason! Every time I make them, they disappear in minutes. There’s something truly irresistible about tender, earthy mushrooms overflowing with a savory, cheesy, and herby filling. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a bustling get-together with friends, these stuffed mushrooms are always a hit. Even my kids, who can be picky eaters, can’t get enough of them! They are incredibly versatile, serving perfectly as an elegant appetizer, a flavorful side dish, or even a satisfying vegetarian main course. The aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake is simply divine, and the first bite – a burst of umami, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs – is pure culinary joy. Honestly, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress and delight, look no further. These Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are your answer.

Ingredients

• Large Cremini or White Button Mushrooms: (1.5 – 2 lbs) – These form the base of our dish, offering a meaty texture and earthy flavor that beautifully complements the filling. Choose large, firm mushrooms for easy stuffing.
• Cream Cheese: (8 oz, softened) – Provides a creamy and rich base for the filling, binding all the ingredients together and adding a delightful tang. Full-fat cream cheese works best for flavor and texture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: (1 cup) – Adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor that deepens the overall taste profile. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best melt and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: (½ cup, chopped) – Offers a bright, fresh, and slightly peppery herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds a vibrant green color.
• Fresh Thyme: (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Contributes an earthy, slightly lemony, and subtle minty flavor that enhances the savory notes of the mushrooms and cheese.
• Garlic: (3 cloves, minced) – Provides a pungent and aromatic foundation, adding depth and complexity to the filling. Freshly minced garlic is key for optimal flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: (½ cup, Panko or Italian seasoned) – Acts as a binder and adds a slightly crunchy texture to the filling. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter and crispier texture, while Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor.
• Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing the mushroom stems and drizzling over the stuffed mushrooms before baking, adding richness and helping them brown beautifully.
• Salt and Black Pepper: (To taste) – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors and balance the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its bolder flavor.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently wash the mushrooms under cool water and pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully remove the stems from each mushroom cap. Use a small spoon to gently scrape out any dark gills from the underside of the mushroom caps to create more space for the filling (optional, but recommended for a cleaner taste).
2. Sauté Mushroom Stems and Garlic: Finely chop the mushroom stems. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic. Sauté until the stems are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step intensifies the mushroom flavor and softens the stems for a better texture in the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh thyme, sautéed mushroom stems and garlic mixture, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the filling is smooth and cohesive. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
4. Stuff the Mushroom Caps: Spoon the cheese and herb filling generously into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly. Don’t be shy with the filling – you want each mushroom to be packed with flavor!
5. Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms: Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish, preferably one that snugly fits them to prevent them from tipping over. You can lightly grease the baking dish or use parchment paper for easier cleanup. Drizzle the stuffed mushrooms lightly with a little extra olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your mushrooms and your oven. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
6. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, estimated, based on 6 servings – 2-3 stuffed mushrooms per serving. Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 2-3 stuffed mushrooms
• Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10-13g
• Cholesterol: 60-75mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 8-10g

(Note: These values are estimations. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and amounts of ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Get ready to enjoy flavorful stuffed mushrooms in under an hour!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes washing and prepping mushrooms, chopping stems, mincing garlic, and chopping herbs. Efficient knife skills will speed up this process.)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (Baking time in the oven until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown. Oven temperatures may vary slightly.)
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (From start to finish, you can have these delicious stuffed mushrooms ready to serve in under 45 minutes, making them a great option for both weeknight meals and special occasions.)

How to Serve

These versatile Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for different occasions:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter for parties or gatherings.
  • Serve them warm as a starter before a main course.
  • Pair them with toothpicks for easy grabbing at cocktail parties.
  • Consider serving alongside other appetizers like bruschetta, olives, or cheese and crackers for a diverse spread.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Complement a main course of roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish.
  • Serve alongside a hearty salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
  • Pair them with pasta dishes or risotto for an Italian-inspired feast.
  • They make a wonderful vegetarian side option for Thanksgiving or holiday dinners.
• As a Vegetarian Main Course:
  • Serve a larger portion (4-5 mushrooms per person) with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
  • Pair them with quinoa or couscous for added protein and grains.
  • Consider serving with a creamy tomato sauce or a balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
  • They can be a delicious and satisfying centerpiece for a vegetarian brunch or lunch.
• Dipping Sauces (Optional):
  • While delicious on their own, you can offer dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing: A classic and creamy pairing.
  • Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy and tomatoey element.
  • Garlic Aioli: Enhances the garlic notes in the stuffing.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Provides a sweet and tangy contrast.

Additional Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms

1. Choose the Right Mushrooms: Opt for large cremini or white button mushrooms. Portobello mushrooms can also be used for a heartier option, but they will require longer baking time. Ensure the mushroom caps are firm and not overly bruised.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Sautéing: Sauté the mushroom stems and garlic in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding will steam the mushrooms instead of sautéing them, preventing them from browning and developing flavor.
3. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing the filling. This will make it easier to combine with other ingredients and create a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Customize Your Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in your filling. Consider adding shredded mozzarella for extra meltiness, Gruyere for a nutty flavor, or a touch of goat cheese for tanginess. A blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano can also enhance the salty and savory notes.
5. Herb Variations: While parsley and thyme are classic choices, you can explore other fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or chives. A combination of Italian herbs can also work beautifully. Dried herbs can be used if fresh are not available, but use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
6. Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or toasted pine nuts to the filling. You can also sprinkle extra breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the stuffed mushrooms before baking for a crispier topping.
7. Make-Ahead Magic: Stuffed mushrooms can be assembled ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. Prepare the stuffed mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
8. Reheating Instructions: Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker reheating, but they may become slightly softer. For best results, oven reheating is recommended to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these stuffed mushrooms vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily make these stuffed mushrooms vegan! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and the Parmesan cheese with a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure your breadcrumbs are also vegan-friendly.

Q2: Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

A: It is not recommended to freeze fully baked stuffed mushrooms as the texture of the mushrooms and filling can become watery and less appealing upon thawing. However, you can freeze the unstuffed mushroom caps and prepare the filling ahead of time and freeze that separately. Thaw both completely before assembling and baking.

Q3: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs?

A: Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh herbs are not available. Use about half the amount of dried herbs as fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. For this recipe, use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Q4: Can I use different types of mushrooms?

A: Absolutely! While cremini or white button mushrooms are classic choices, you can use other types of mushrooms like baby bella, shiitake (remove tough stems), or even portobello mushroom caps for larger servings. Adjust baking time accordingly based on the size and type of mushroom.

Q5: How do I prevent the mushrooms from getting watery?

A: Sautéing the mushroom stems helps to draw out some moisture. Also, scraping out the gills from the mushroom caps can help reduce wateriness. Don’t wash the mushrooms excessively; just gently wipe them clean or quickly rinse and pat dry thoroughly. Baking at a slightly higher temperature can also help evaporate excess moisture.

Q6: Can I add meat to the filling?

A: While this recipe is vegetarian, you can certainly add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, bacon, or ground beef to the filling if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. Make sure any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the filling.

Q7: How long do leftover stuffed mushrooms last in the refrigerator?

A: Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before refrigerating.

Q8: What can I serve with stuffed mushrooms for a complete meal?

A: For a complete vegetarian meal, serve stuffed mushrooms with a fresh garden salad, quinoa or couscous, and roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a non-vegetarian meal, they pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon and a side of mashed potatoes or rice.

This comprehensive guide to Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms should provide everything you need to create this delicious and versatile dish. Enjoy!

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