Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese are a savory, irresistible appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the rich taste of sausage and melty cheese. This recipe is a perfect way to impress guests at any gathering or to treat yourself to a comforting snack. The mushrooms are stuffed with a flavorful sausage mixture and topped with cheese, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, these stuffed mushrooms will always be a hit. The dish is easy to prepare, and it doesn’t require complicated ingredients, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for holiday dinners, game-day snacks, or just as an indulgent treat when you’re in the mood for something savory.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese

• Savory and Flavorful: The combination of sausage, garlic, cheese, and herbs creates a rich, savory filling that’s packed with flavor, perfectly complementing the earthy taste of the mushrooms.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make these stuffed mushrooms in no time. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal cooking experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a festive holiday meal, a game-day party, or a cozy family dinner, these stuffed mushrooms fit every occasion. They also make great finger foods for gatherings.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the juicy mushrooms creates a satisfying dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
• Customizable: This recipe is versatile—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Add different herbs, change up the cheese, or experiment with different types of sausage for unique variations.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 stuffed mushrooms
• Calories per Serving: Around 100-120 calories per mushroom, depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Fat: 7-9g
• Carbohydrates: 4-5g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Mushrooms:

• 24 large white mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Gently wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Remove the stems from the mushrooms by gently twisting them out. Be careful not to tear the caps. Set aside the mushroom caps for stuffing, and finely chop the mushroom stems for the filling.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain any excess fat. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the Stuffing Mixture

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté the chopped mushroom stems for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and release their moisture. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed mushroom stems and garlic, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed into the mushrooms.

4. Stuff the Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the mushroom caps on a baking sheet, making sure they’re standing up with the open side facing up. Using a spoon or your fingers, stuff each mushroom cap with a generous amount of the sausage and cheese mixture. Don’t be afraid to pile the stuffing high—it will melt down during baking, so a little extra won’t hurt.

5. Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms

Drizzle a little olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms for added flavor and to help them brown. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The tops should be golden brown and slightly crispy.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the mushrooms are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are key to this recipe. They should be firm, without any wrinkles or soft spots. Avoid using pre-sliced mushrooms, as they can dry out quickly during cooking.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pile the filling high, be sure to leave a little space at the top of the mushrooms. This allows the filling to stay in place while the mushrooms cook, and it also helps to avoid overflows.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sausage mixture before stuffing the mushrooms. If needed, adjust the seasoning with extra herbs, garlic, or salt to suit your preferences. For a spicier version, use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes.
• Prepare in Advance: You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring them to room temperature and bake as directed.
• Use Other Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A sharp cheddar, Gouda, or fontina would all work well in place of the mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• For Extra Crispy Topping: If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese on top of the mushrooms before baking. You can also broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking to get a golden-brown crust.

Variations of Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese

• Spinach and Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms: Add a handful of cooked spinach to the sausage mixture for a green, savory twist. This variation adds extra nutrition and flavor to the stuffing.
• Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms: For an extra layer of smokiness, mix in some crumbled bacon with the sausage filling. Bacon and sausage pair perfectly together, creating an irresistible combination.
• Crab and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: If you want to create a seafood-inspired version, swap out the sausage for lump crab meat. The crab meat will pair beautifully with the creamy cheese filling.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms: Skip the sausage entirely and use a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, sautéed vegetables, and herbs for a vegetarian version of these stuffed mushrooms.
• Spicy Stuffed Mushrooms: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. This variation will please spice lovers and add some heat to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if necessary. Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen stuffed mushrooms can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the mushrooms for 30-35 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese

Pair your Stuffed Mushrooms with these complementary dishes and beverages for a complete meal or appetizer spread:

• Salad: A crisp, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the stuffed mushrooms. Try a mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside some warm, buttery garlic bread for a satisfying combination. The bread will help soak up any extra filling and make for a delicious side.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus are a great complement to the mushrooms, offering a lighter, healthy balance to the rich dish.
• Wine: A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with these stuffed mushrooms. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir or Merlot would also complement the savory flavors.
• Beer: If you’re serving these mushrooms for a party or casual gathering, a cold beer, especially a pale ale or IPA, will work well with the sausage and cheese stuffing.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese are the perfect appetizer or snack that brings together bold, savory flavors in a single bite. With a simple, easy-to-follow recipe and ingredients you probably already have on hand, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a family dinner, or craving something comforting, these stuffed mushrooms will satisfy every taste bud. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection! Enjoy the delicious, cheesy, sausage-stuffed goodness of these bite-sized treats.