Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs are a delicious and savory appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with a rich, creamy filling. These bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant party platters. The creamy cream cheese filling, enhanced with fresh herbs and seasonings, perfectly complements the tender mushroom caps, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

This dish is an excellent choice for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, offering a light yet flavorful alternative to traditional appetizers. Easy to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With their creamy filling, herby notes, and slightly crispy mushroom edges, these stuffed mushrooms are a hit every time they’re served.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The cream cheese filling gives these mushrooms a rich, velvety texture. Combined with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and garlic, the filling creates a flavorful bite that will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect Bite-Sized Appetizer: These stuffed mushrooms are easy to eat and make for an elegant and bite-sized appetizer. The mushrooms themselves provide a tender, earthy base that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, herb-infused filling.
• Customizable and Versatile: This recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the herbs and spices based on what you have on hand, or add in additional ingredients like bacon, Parmesan cheese, or even spinach to make it your own.
• Quick and Easy: Despite their sophisticated look, stuffed mushrooms are relatively easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a tray of these delicious appetizers ready to serve in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese and herbs are versatile and can be served at a variety of events, including holiday dinners, game days, cocktail parties, and potlucks. They’re also a great addition to any cheese platter or charcuterie board.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 stuffed mushrooms (depending on size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 60-70 calories per stuffed mushroom, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 60-70 kcal
• Fat: 5-6g
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs:

• 24 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for greasing the baking dish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by preparing the mushrooms. Carefully remove the stems from the mushroom caps. You can gently twist and pull the stems, or use a small paring knife to cut them off. Be sure to leave the caps intact, as they will hold the stuffing.

Once the stems are removed, chop the stems finely and set them aside. You’ll use them in the filling to enhance the mushroom flavor. If you’re using large mushrooms, you may need to scrape out a little bit of the inside of the cap with a spoon to make more room for the filling.

Wipe the mushroom caps with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Set the mushroom caps aside on a baking sheet or plate while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, thyme, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well until everything is fully combined and the filling is smooth.

Next, take the chopped mushroom stems and add them to the cream cheese mixture. The stems add a nice mushroom flavor and give the filling additional texture. Stir the stems into the filling mixture until they are evenly distributed.

If you like a bit of crunch, you can add 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the filling. The breadcrumbs will give the filling some texture and help it hold together as you stuff the mushrooms.

3. Stuff the Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Now it’s time to stuff the mushrooms. Using a small spoon or your hands, carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom cap. Be sure to fill them generously but not overstuff them, as the filling should be slightly heaping.

Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with butter. Make sure they are placed closely together so that the mushrooms stay upright while baking.

4. Bake the Mushrooms

Once the mushrooms are stuffed and arranged on the baking sheet, it’s time to bake them. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown on top. If you’d like to add a little extra crispiness to the top, you can sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on top of each mushroom before baking.

If you’d like to make the mushrooms extra rich, you can melt a tablespoon of butter and drizzle it over the stuffed mushrooms before baking. This will add an extra layer of flavor and a golden finish.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the mushrooms are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a little extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. These stuffed mushrooms are best served warm, but they can also be served at room temperature.

Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a platter and serve as an appetizer at your next party, dinner, or gathering. Enjoy the creamy, herby flavors of the stuffed mushrooms with a side of your favorite dipping sauces, or pair them with a light salad or wine.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

• Choose the Right Mushrooms: White button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are ideal for stuffing. Make sure to select mushrooms with firm, intact caps. Larger mushrooms work better for stuffing since they can hold more filling, but smaller ones can be used for bite-sized appetizers.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before stuffing the mushrooms. You can also stuff the mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to bake them as close to serving time as possible for the best texture.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and cheeses in the filling. For a more robust flavor, you can add finely chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled bacon. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, try swapping out the Parmesan for Gruyère or goat cheese.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When baking the stuffed mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows the mushrooms to bake evenly and ensures that the filling stays intact.
• Crispier Tops: If you like a crispier topping, you can broil the mushrooms for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

Variations of Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

• Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the filling for a smoky, savory twist. Bacon complements the creamy cheese and herbs, adding a rich flavor that will elevate the dish.
• Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: Mix in a handful of sautéed spinach with the cream cheese filling. The spinach adds color and texture, while the creaminess of the cheese balances out the earthy flavor of the spinach.
• Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: For a more luxurious version, try adding canned crab meat or fresh crab to the filling. This seafood variation is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
• Cheddar and Jalapeño Stuffed Mushrooms: Add some shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese filling for a spicy, cheesy twist on the classic recipe. This variation pairs well with a cool dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream.
• Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms: For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of the Parmesan cheese. You can also add in sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

Stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Allow the mushrooms to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat the stuffed mushrooms, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also microwave individual mushrooms for 30-45 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power.

Stuffed mushrooms can also be frozen for longer storage. Arrange the unbaked stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, bake the frozen stuffed mushrooms at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until they are hot and golden.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

These stuffed mushrooms pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:

• Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette will provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy stuffed mushrooms.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is always a great pairing with stuffed mushrooms, as it adds crunch and a boost of savory flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the stuffed mushrooms alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a complete meal.
• Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy mushrooms. For a red wine, try a Pinot Noir for a smooth and fruity contrast.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs are an irresistible appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with a creamy, herby filling. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an elegant appetizer, or just craving something savory, these stuffed mushrooms will surely satisfy your taste buds. With a few simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and endless customization options, these mushrooms are a perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and impress your guests with this delicious and versatile dish!