Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and savory appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than these stuffed cremini mushrooms. Packed with flavors from crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and aromatic garlic, these bites are perfect for any gathering or special occasion. Easy to prepare and bake, they offer a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
16 ounces large cremini mushrooms
8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons Panko breadcrumbs
¼ teaspoon ground paprika
Olive oil, for drizzling
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 16 stuffed mushrooms
To prepare these mushroom delights, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Clean the cremini mushrooms thoroughly and remove their stems. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled bacon, cream cheese, chopped green onions, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring until you achieve a well-blended mixture.
Next, generously fill each mushroom cap with this savory bacon and cream cheese blend. In a separate small bowl, mix together the shredded Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the stuffed mushrooms for a crispy topping.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tops of the mushrooms before placing them on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the mushrooms turn tender and the tops are golden brown.
Once baked, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and serve them warm for a truly delightful appetizer experience. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Clean the Mushrooms
Clean the 16 ounces of large cremini mushrooms with a damp cloth and carefully remove the stems from each mushroom cap.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, cream cheese (8 ounces), chopped green onions (2), minced garlic (2 cloves), kosher salt (¼ teaspoon), and ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon). Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
Using a spoon, fill each mushroom cap with the prepared bacon and cream cheese mixture, pressing the filling down gently to pack it in.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a separate small bowl, mix together freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (3 tablespoons), Panko breadcrumbs (2 tablespoons), and ground paprika (¼ teaspoon). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffed mushrooms.
Step 6: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tops of the stuffed mushrooms to enhance flavor and promote browning.
Step 7: Bake the Mushrooms
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the mushrooms cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
Storage
Any leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestion
These stuffed mushrooms are great as an appetizer or a side dish and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces.
Customization
Feel free to add additional seasonings or herbs to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor, such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting mushrooms enhances their natural flavors and textures. Baking at 375°F allows the mushrooms to cook evenly while the tops become golden brown.
Stuffing
Stuffing mushrooms involves filling their caps with a mixture of ingredients. This method combines flavors and creates a delicious bite-sized appetizer.
Mixing
Thoroughly mixing ingredients, such as cream cheese and bacon, ensures a well-distributed flavor throughout the stuffed mushrooms.
Sautéing
While not explicitly mentioned in the recipe, sautéing garlic before mixing can enhance its flavor and aroma, adding depth to the filling.
Drizzling
Drizzling olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms before baking helps to ensure they remain moist while also promoting browning.
Sprinkling
Sprinkling a mixture of Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs on top adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor to the stuffed mushrooms.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can substitute large cremini mushrooms with other varieties such as button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms.
How do I store leftover stuffed mushrooms?
Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms in advance and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Can I add other toppings to the mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other toppings such as crushed nuts, fresh herbs, or additional cheese to suit your taste.
Conclusion
The stuffed cremini mushrooms with bacon and cream cheese make a delightful appetizer or party snack. The combination of savory flavors from the bacon, creaminess from the cheese, and the earthy taste of mushrooms creates an irresistible dish. With a crisp topping and inviting aroma, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Stuffed Mushrooms
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