Are you craving those irresistible Red Lobster stuffed mushrooms but don't want to pay the restaurant price? Then you're in luck! This copycat recipe lets you recreate the magic of those savory, cheesy, garlicky delights right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large mushroom caps (cremini or button mushrooms work best)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (you can substitute imitation crab for a budget-friendly option)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently remove the stems from the mushroom caps and finely chop them. Set the caps aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Filling
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushroom stems and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked crab meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
Spoon the crab mixture generously into each mushroom cap. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These delectable stuffed mushrooms are fantastic as an appetizer or a light meal. Enjoy the fruits of your homemade cooking!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick.
- Cheese lovers rejoice!: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, or even some crumbled goat cheese, would be delicious.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the crab meat and add a can of drained and rinsed artichoke hearts, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed spinach to the filling for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Meal prep friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to stuff the mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience without the restaurant price tag. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just because you deserve a little treat! Enjoy your homemade Red Lobster-style stuffed mushrooms!