Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs Recipe

Introduction

Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs are a delightful and savory appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a party with friends. These bite-sized mushrooms are filled with a rich and creamy mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms paired with the smooth and flavorful filling creates a mouthwatering combination that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The versatility of stuffed mushrooms makes them an ideal choice for a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. The dish is simple to prepare, yet elegant enough to impress your guests. Plus, it can be easily customized with different herbs, cheeses, and even additional ingredients like bacon, spinach, or sausage for a heartier filling.

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s both comforting and sophisticated, Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs are the perfect choice. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve in no time.

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

• Flavorful & Creamy Filling: The cream cheese filling is rich, smooth, and flavorful, enhanced with fresh garlic, herbs, and seasonings. It complements the mushrooms perfectly, creating a harmonious bite.
• Versatile: You can customize the stuffing to your liking by adding ingredients like spinach, bacon, sausage, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. The herbs can also be tailored to suit your taste preferences, from classic parsley and thyme to more robust basil or rosemary.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, these stuffed mushrooms are always a hit. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat and share, while their elegant presentation makes them feel special.
• Simple to Make: While they might seem fancy, stuffed mushrooms are incredibly easy to prepare. The filling comes together quickly, and the mushrooms bake in the oven in just 20 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute appetizer.
• Light Yet Satisfying: Stuffed mushrooms are a great way to enjoy a satisfying appetizer without being too heavy. The cream cheese filling offers just the right amount of richness, while the mushrooms themselves provide a light, earthy base.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 stuffed mushrooms
• Calories per Serving: Around 35-45 calories per mushroom, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 35-45 kcal
• Fat: 3-4g
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Mushrooms:

• 24 large white or cremini mushrooms (stems removed)
• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by preparing the mushrooms. Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. Be careful not to soak the mushrooms, as they can absorb water and become soggy.

Next, carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms by gently twisting them. You can either discard the stems or chop them finely and add them to the stuffing mixture for extra flavor. Set the mushroom caps aside for stuffing.

If you prefer, you can lightly scrape the inside of each mushroom cap with a spoon to create a bit more space for the filling, but this step is optional.

2. Make the Cream Cheese & Herb Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use a hand mixer or a spoon to beat them together until smooth and creamy. This step will ensure that the filling is light and easy to pipe or spoon into the mushroom caps.

Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, and parmesan cheese to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until well combined. Season the filling with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, add the onion powder and garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.

If you’ve reserved the mushroom stems, finely chop them and stir them into the filling mixture as well. This adds an earthy, mushroom-forward flavor to the stuffing. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can skip this step or pulse the stems in a food processor before adding them to the mixture.

3. Stuff the Mushrooms

Once your filling is ready, spoon or pipe the mixture into the mushroom caps. Be generous with the filling, making sure the mushrooms are fully stuffed but not overflowing. If you have extra filling, you can spread it over the tops of the mushrooms for a thicker, more indulgent topping.

If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs over the stuffed mushrooms. The breadcrumbs will toast up as the mushrooms bake, creating a light, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.

4. Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Make sure the mushrooms are snug but not overcrowded so they bake evenly.

Bake the stuffed mushrooms for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your mushrooms, so check them after 20 minutes and adjust the time as needed.

If you’ve added breadcrumbs on top, they should be golden brown by the time the mushrooms are done baking.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the stuffed mushrooms are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve warm. These stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be served at room temperature if needed.

These mushrooms make a perfect appetizer for any gathering, and they also pair wonderfully with other party dishes like dips, chips, and finger foods.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, so try to use freshly chopped parsley, thyme, and other herbs in the stuffing. Fresh herbs add a bright, fragrant note to the filling that dried herbs cannot replicate.
• Don’t Overstuff the Mushrooms: While it’s tempting to pack the mushrooms with as much filling as possible, overstuffing them can cause the filling to spill over during baking. It’s better to slightly underfill them than to risk a mess.
• Choose the Right Mushrooms: For stuffed mushrooms, large white or cremini mushrooms work best because they have sturdy caps that can hold up to the filling. You can use other varieties like portobello or baby bella mushrooms for a more earthy flavor.
• Make It Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time. Assemble the mushrooms, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your filling. Add cooked spinach, crumbled bacon, sausage, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a different taste.
• Don’t Skip the Topping: Adding breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed mushrooms provides a satisfying crunch. If you want to make them even more indulgent, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the breadcrumbs before baking.

Variations of Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs

• Bacon-Stuffed Mushrooms: Add crispy bacon crumbles to the cream cheese mixture for a smoky, savory twist. The bacon adds a nice crunch and extra flavor to the mushrooms.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms: Mix in cooked spinach and chopped artichoke hearts with the cream cheese and herbs for a richer, more hearty filling.
• Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms: Brown some Italian sausage and stir it into the cream cheese mixture for a filling that’s both savory and spicy. This variation makes the mushrooms more filling and perfect as a main course.
• Cheddar and Chive Stuffed Mushrooms: Swap the parmesan cheese for sharp cheddar and add chopped chives to the filling for a flavorful, cheesy twist.
• Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or cashew-based cream cheese, and use plant-based butter. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Storage and Shelf Life

Stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if needed. To store, place the cooled mushrooms in an airtight container and refrigerate them. When ready to reheat, place the mushrooms in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

Stuffed mushrooms can also be frozen before baking. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Transfer the frozen mushrooms to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the mushrooms are cooked through and the filling is golden and bubbly.

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

Pair your stuffed mushrooms with a variety of delicious sides to complete the meal:

• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed mushrooms. Try a fresh arugula salad or a mixed greens salad with a lemony dressing.
• Bread: Serve with fresh bread, such as baguette slices or garlic bread, for dipping in the creamy filling.
• Charcuterie Board: Stuffed mushrooms are a great addition to a charcuterie board. Pair them with a variety of cheeses, meats, olives, and nuts for a well-rounded appetizer platter.
• Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy mushrooms. If you prefer red wine, a Pinot Noir works well with the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese & Herbs are an elegant and flavorful appetizer that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a rich and creamy filling combined with the earthiness of mushrooms, this dish is a sure way to impress your guests. Whether served as a simple appetizer or part of a larger spread, these stuffed mushrooms will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy these savory bites at your next gathering and savor the compliments!