Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Cream cheese stuffed mushrooms are the perfect blend of soft, tender mushrooms filled with a creamy, cheesy filling. They’re deliciously savory and make a fantastic addition to any party platter. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and easy appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Are the Perfect Appetizer

Bite-Sized Elegance

These little morsels look fancy enough for a formal occasion, but they’re simple enough to whip up even if you’re a novice in the kitchen. Cream cheese stuffed mushrooms are light but satisfying, making them an ideal appetizer to start off a meal without filling everyone up too quickly.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Want to add bacon or sausage for a heartier bite? Or perhaps you’d like to keep it vegetarian with some spinach or herbs. You can play around with the ingredients and flavors, making this dish versatile for any palate.

Ingredients Needed for Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The key to a great stuffed mushroom dish lies in selecting the right type of mushroom. Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work best because they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling, yet small enough to serve as bite-sized appetizers. Cremini mushrooms add a deeper, earthy flavor, while white button mushrooms are a classic option with a milder taste.

The Key Ingredient: Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is what makes these stuffed mushrooms rich and creamy. Softened cream cheese forms the base of the filling, offering a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can use full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess, or opt for a lower-fat version if you’re looking to cut down on calories.

Other Flavor-Boosting Ingredients

To elevate the flavor of the filling, garlic, herbs, and grated parmesan are added. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add brightness, while a dash of salt and pepper enhances the overall taste. Parmesan provides that extra layer of cheesiness, and some breadcrumbs help to bind everything together while adding a slight crunch.

How to Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Prepping the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning the mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Gently remove the stems by twisting them off and set them aside. You can chop the stems finely and use them in the filling if you’d like, or discard them. Make sure the mushroom caps are dry before stuffing them, as excess moisture can make them soggy.

Mixing the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated parmesan, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using chopped mushroom stems, mix them in as well. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy.

Stuffing and Baking

Use a spoon or piping bag to stuff each mushroom cap generously with the cream cheese mixture. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.

Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

How to Avoid Mushy Mushrooms

To prevent your mushrooms from becoming mushy, avoid washing them with water. Instead, use a damp paper towel to clean them. Additionally, roasting the mushrooms in the oven helps to concentrate their flavor and remove excess moisture.

Creating the Right Balance of Flavors

A great stuffed mushroom has a well-balanced filling that isn’t too cheesy or overpowering. The garlic, parmesan, and herbs should complement each other without overshadowing the delicate flavor of the mushrooms. Taste the filling before stuffing the mushrooms and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Variations and Add-Ins

Adding Bacon or Sausage

For a heartier, more indulgent version, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage to the filling. Simply cook the bacon until crispy or brown the sausage, then chop it finely and mix it into the cream cheese filling.

Making Them Vegetarian-Friendly

If you’d like to keep the mushrooms vegetarian, simply stick with herbs, garlic, and parmesan. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or finely chopped bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

How to Add a Spicy Kick

To give your stuffed mushrooms a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese filling. A drizzle of hot sauce over the top just before serving can also give them an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Mushrooms

Pairing with Dipping Sauces

While these mushrooms are flavorful on their own, they also pair beautifully with dipping sauces like marinara or a light garlic aioli. The creamy texture of the filling contrasts perfectly with a tangy or slightly acidic sauce.

Best Sides to Serve Alongside

Cream cheese stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer, but they also work as a side dish for meals like steak, roasted chicken, or pasta. They can add a rich, flavorful element to any dinner plate.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store Leftovers Without Losing Flavor

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the mushrooms are completely cool before storing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

Reheating Tips for Maintaining Texture

When reheating, it’s best to use the oven to maintain the texture of the mushrooms. Place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving them as it can make the mushrooms rubbery.

Can You Make Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Ahead of Time?

Preparing the Day Before

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms a day ahead of time. Simply stuff the mushroom caps, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saving option if you’re hosting a party.

Freezing and Reheating

These mushrooms freeze well, too. After stuffing the mushrooms, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat them, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes.

Health Benefits of Mushrooms

Why Mushrooms Are a Nutrient Powerhouse

Mushrooms are low in calories but high in nutrients like vitamins D and B, antioxidants, and potassium. They’re also a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion. Plus, their meaty texture makes them a satisfying plant-based option for vegetarians.

Making Healthier Substitutions

To make the stuffed mushrooms healthier, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even a dairy-free version. Skipping the breadcrumbs or using gluten-free crumbs is another way to cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Different Types of Mushrooms?
   Yes, you can use various types of mushrooms for this recipe. While button and cremini mushrooms are the most common, you can also try using portobello mushrooms for a larger, more substantial appetizer, or shiitake mushrooms for a unique flavor twist.
2. What’s the Best Way to Soften the Cream Cheese?
   To soften cream cheese, leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut it into small cubes and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overheat it.
3. Can I Make These Vegan?
   Yes, you can make vegan stuffed mushrooms by using vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. You can also add chopped nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
4. How Do I Prevent the Mushrooms from Becoming Watery?
   To avoid watery mushrooms, make sure to pat them dry before stuffing. Additionally, avoid overcooking them, as excessive baking can cause them to release too much moisture.
5. How Long Can I Store the Leftovers?
   Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just reheat them thoroughly before serving.
   Yield: 4

   Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

   

   Print

   Cream cheese stuffed mushrooms are the perfect blend of soft, tender mushrooms filled with a creamy, cheesy filling. They're deliciously savory and make a fantastic addition to any party platter. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and easy appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

   Prep Time 10 minutes

   Cook Time 20 minutes

   Ingredients

   • 16 oz white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed
   • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
   • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
   • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
   • 2 tbsp olive oil
   • 1/4 tsp paprika
   • Salt and pepper to taste

   Instructions

   1. Preheat Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   2. Prepare Mushrooms:Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems. Set the mushroom caps aside and finely chop the stems.
   3. Sauté the Mushroom Stems:Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
   4. Make the Filling:In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, sautéed mushroom stems and garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
   5. Stuff the Mushrooms:Using a spoon, generously stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture. Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet.
   6. Top with Bread Crumbs:Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with bread crumbs for added crunch.
   7. Bake:Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
   8. Garnish and Serve:Remove from the oven and garnish with additional fresh parsley. Serve hot as an appetizer or side dish.

   Notes

   For added flavor, mix in crumbled bacon or chopped spinach with the cream cheese filling.

   You can also use panko bread crumbs for a crispier topping.

   Make sure the mushrooms are similar in size to ensure even cooking.