Craving that irresistible appetizer from the Cheesecake Factory? Those savory, cheesy stuffed mushrooms are a crowd-pleaser, and you don't need a reservation to enjoy them! This copycat recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen, offering a delicious and surprisingly easy way to impress your friends and family. Get ready to elevate your next dinner party or simply enjoy a comforting, healthy meal at home with this simple, homemade recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled sausage (Italian sausage recommended)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Prep the Mushrooms: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently clean the cremini mushrooms, removing the stems and setting them aside. You can use a small spoon or knife to carefully scrape out any extra dirt.
- Sauté the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cooked sausage; cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Filling Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mayonnaise, egg, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the sausage mixture generously into each mushroom cap. Don't overfill; leave a little space at the top.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a single layer in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are fantastic as an appetizer or a light meal.
Tips for Success:
- Mushroom Selection: Cremini mushrooms hold their shape well during baking, but you can experiment with other varieties like button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the mushrooms are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish to allow for even cooking.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or different types of cheese. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff the mushrooms.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add 1/4 cup of crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta for a vegetarian-friendly version with similar richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious recipe offers a quick dinner idea, perfect for those busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality stuffed mushrooms! They’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. These easy recipes are great for both beginner and experienced cooks, providing a delicious and healthy meal option. Remember to adjust seasoning to your personal preference. Happy cooking!