These sausage stuffed mushrooms are little bites of joy! Filled with tasty sausage, cream cheese, and herbs, they make a perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Honestly, who can resist these? They’re juicy, savory, and just the right amount of cheesy. I like to serve them warm, and trust me, they’ll vanish in a flash! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: I love using large white or cremini mushrooms for their generous size and flavor. If you’re looking for lower calories, consider portobellos as they are great for stuffing too!
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your preference. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage works surprisingly well as a substitute!
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still gives that creamy texture. You could also use a dairy-free cream cheese if avoiding dairy.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is great for meltiness! If you want to mix it up, try cheddar for a sharper flavor or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for a crispy topping. If gluten-free, use crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep that crunch without the gluten.
How Can I Ensure My Stuffed Mushrooms are Full of Flavor?
Flavor will really shine through if you pay attention to your sausage mixture. Here’s how:
- Make sure to cook the garlic and onion until soft before adding the sausage. This builds a tasty base.
- Don’t rush the sausage cooking. Break it up well while it browns to ensure it absorbs flavors and is evenly cooked.
- Taste the filling before stuffing – it should be well-seasoned. Season it more if needed to enhance those yummy flavors.
By following these tips, your stuffed mushrooms will be flavor-packed and delicious! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and reserved
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have delicious, mouth-watering stuffed mushrooms ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven will be hot and ready when it’s time to bake those tasty mushrooms.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms:
Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems by twisting them out. Set the mushroom caps aside and finely chop the stems – you’ll use them in the stuffing!
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until everything is softened and fragrant.
4. Brown the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Make the Stuffing Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage mixture with the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until well mixed, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff the Mushrooms:
Generously spoon the sausage mixture into each mushroom cap, piling it up a bit so it’s nice and full!
7. Arrange and Bake:
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When they’re done baking, remove the mushrooms from the oven and garnish with extra chopped parsley. Serve them warm to enjoy all that savory, cheesy goodness!
Enjoy these delicious sausage stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or a tasty snack at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a big hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is the classic choice, you can use any ground sausage you prefer, such as chicken sausage or chorizo for a spicy kick. Just make sure it’s cooked through before mixing with the other ingredients!
Can I Make These Stuffed Mushrooms Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the mushrooms a few hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Mushrooms?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the stuffing nice and moist!
Can I Freeze Stuffed Mushrooms?
Yes, you can freeze them! Individually freeze the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer—just add additional time to ensure they’re heated thoroughly.