Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are a delectable combination of succulent shrimp, savory seasonings, and the earthy flavor of fresh mushrooms. Whether you’re looking for a fancy appetizer for your next dinner party or a delicious starter to complement a special meal, these stuffed mushrooms are the way to go. The shrimp provides a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the richness of cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan, all nestled inside a tender mushroom cap. They’re baked to perfection with a crispy, golden topping that adds an extra crunch with each bite.

What makes Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms stand out is their versatility. You can prepare them ahead of time for easy entertaining, customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, or even try different kinds of mushrooms to elevate the dish. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing hors d’oeuvre or as part of a larger meal, Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are guaranteed to impress your guests with their bold flavors and satisfying texture. These bite-sized delights will have everyone coming back for more.

In this recipe guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making the perfect Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms, from choosing the best ingredients to tips for stuffing the mushrooms just right. We’ll also provide variations to help you personalize the recipe to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy shrimp, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s both rich and savory.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are a fantastic choice for entertaining. They look impressive but are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them an ideal appetizer for parties, holiday gatherings, or even casual get-togethers.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a more classic flavor, you can easily modify the filling to suit your taste. You can even swap out shrimp for other proteins or add different herbs and cheeses.
• Ideal for a Bite-Sized Snack: These stuffed mushrooms are perfect for portion control. They’re easy to pick up and eat in one bite, making them a great choice for snacking without the mess.
• Versatile: Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are just as suitable for a special occasion as they are for a weeknight dinner. You can serve them as a starter, part of a main course, or alongside other finger foods.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Makes 12-16 stuffed mushrooms (depending on the size of the mushrooms)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 100-120 calories per mushroom, depending on the filling and topping.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Fat: 7-9g
• Carbohydrates: 4-6g
• Protein: 7-8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Stuffing:

• 12-16 large button or cremini mushrooms (depending on size)
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (small to medium-sized shrimp work best)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning your mushrooms. Gently wipe the mushroom caps with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. Remove the stems from the mushrooms, carefully twisting them out with your hands or using a small paring knife. Set the mushroom caps aside. You can save the stems for the stuffing, or discard them if preferred.

Use a small spoon or melon baller to carefully scoop out a little more of the inside of the mushroom caps, making enough space for the stuffing. Be careful not to break the mushroom caps in the process. Once the mushroom caps are prepped, set them aside on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

Peel and devein your shrimp if they’re not already prepared. Cut the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch). This ensures that the shrimp pieces fit neatly into the mushroom caps.

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp to the skillet and season them with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they will continue cooking in the oven later.

Once the shrimp is cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the Shrimp Stuffing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon juice (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. The cream cheese should bind all the ingredients together and create a creamy, flavorful mixture. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to add a little heat if desired.

If the stuffing feels too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or a touch of the melted butter to achieve a creamier consistency.

4. Stuff the Mushrooms

Spoon a generous amount of the shrimp mixture into each mushroom cap, packing it in slightly so that it holds together well. Be sure not to overfill the mushrooms, as you want to make sure the stuffing stays inside the caps during cooking.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese for the topping. This will give the mushrooms a golden, crunchy texture once baked. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the stuffed mushrooms.

6. Bake the Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are spaced out evenly. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden and bubbly. You should see the breadcrumbs turn a golden brown color when they’re ready.

If you want an extra crispy topping, you can broil the mushrooms for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve these Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms hot, and enjoy the cheesy, shrimp-filled goodness!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms

• Choosing the Right Mushrooms: While button mushrooms are the most common choice for stuffed mushrooms, you can experiment with other types like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for a different flavor. Just be sure the mushrooms are large enough to hold the stuffing.
• Shrimp Size: Use medium or small shrimp for this recipe. Larger shrimp may be too chunky and could be harder to fit into the mushroom caps. The shrimp should be diced into small pieces so they mix well with the creamy filling.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can add sautéed spinach, crab meat, or even bacon bits for additional flavors. A little splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the richness of the stuffing.
• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time. Simply stuff the mushrooms, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re chilled.
• For a Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese or substitute the butter with olive oil. For even fewer calories, use a mix of non-fat Greek yogurt and a little bit of cream cheese to maintain that creamy texture without the added fat.

Variations of Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms

• Crab Stuffed Mushrooms: Swap the shrimp for crab meat for a seafood version. You can use imitation crab or fresh crab, depending on your preference.
• Spicy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms: Add some diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the stuffing for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms: For a vegetarian version, use chopped mushrooms stems, spinach, and ricotta cheese in place of the shrimp for a creamy, flavorful filling.
• Bacon Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms: Add some crispy crumbled bacon to the shrimp filling for a smoky, savory flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the stuffed mushrooms in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the crispy topping may not hold up as well.

If you want to freeze the stuffed mushrooms, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat from frozen, bake the stuffed mushrooms in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms

While Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms make a great appetizer or snack on their own, they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:

• Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing will balance the richness of the stuffed mushrooms.
• Garlic Bread: Serve these mushrooms alongside some garlic bread for a comforting pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or green beans complement the savory flavors of the mushrooms.
• Crispy Fries: If you want to keep it casual, pair your stuffed mushrooms with crispy fries or even sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal.

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Conclusion

Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are a perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a flavorful combination of shrimp, creamy filling, and savory seasonings. They’re simple to prepare, versatile enough for customization, and guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re entertaining or simply looking for a special treat, these stuffed mushrooms will elevate your menu with their delicious flavors and elegant presentation. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bite-sized taste of gourmet cooking!