Description
Bacon & Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
16 large button mushrooms (stems removed)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 garlic clove (minced)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Prep the mushrooms: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Brush the caps lightly with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
Make the filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the mushrooms: Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, packing it generously.
Bake: Bake the stuffed mushrooms for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are tender.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve warm as a delicious appetizer!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 (2-3 mushrooms per serving)
Calories: 140 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stuffed mushrooms every time. First, ensure your mushrooms are dry after cleaning; any excess moisture will make them soggy. Use a small spoon or melon baller to gently hollow out the caps if needed, creating more room for filling. For the filling, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Combine all filling ingredients thoroughly, tasting before adding salt as the bacon and cheeses are already salty. When stuffing, mound the filling slightly above the cap—it will settle as it bakes. Arrange the mushrooms on the baking sheet with a little space between them for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed mushrooms are incredibly versatile. Serve them straight from the oven on a decorative platter as the star of your appetizer spread. For a complete party menu, pair them with other finger foods like meatballs, bruschetta, or a vegetable crudité. They also make an excellent side dish for a steak dinner. Consider drizzling them with a balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh chives just before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.
How-to Summary
Clean and de-stem mushrooms, then brush with oil. Mix softened cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, cooked bacon, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper into a uniform filling. Generously stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed mushrooms ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance. Store the stuffed, unbaked mushrooms covered in the refrigerator. Add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes for cheddar. For a lighter version, try part-skim ricotta mixed with the cream cheese.
How do I prevent soggy mushrooms? The key is dry mushrooms. Wipe them with a damp paper towel instead of rinsing under water. You can also bake the empty caps for 5 minutes before stuffing to release excess moisture.
What can I use instead of bacon? For a vegetarian option, substitute finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or plant-based bacon bits. Cooked, crumbled sausage is another delicious alternative.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore texture; the microwave will make them soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will be difficult to blend smoothly and may result in a lumpy filling. Do not over-salt the filling before tasting, since bacon and Parmesan are naturally salty. Resist the urge to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this steams the mushrooms instead of roasting them. Finally, do not skip the step of brushing the caps with oil, which helps them roast properly and prevents sticking.
Conclusion
These Bacon & Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining savory, creamy, and umami flavors in one irresistible bite. With a simple process and easily customizable ingredients, this recipe is a reliable go-to for any gathering, from casual game days to elegant holiday parties. Mastering the few key techniques outlined will ensure your mushrooms are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor every single time.