Are you looking for a delicious and impressive appetizer or a satisfying light meal? Look no further! These stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese and sausage are incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve a healthy and delicious dish. Let's dive into this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, large
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel. Remove the stems and finely chop them. Set aside the mushroom caps.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Add the minced garlic to the cooked sausage and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the softened cream cheese, chopped mushroom stems, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the red onion now. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
- Fill each mushroom cap generously with the sausage and cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Bake the Mushrooms
- Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through and slightly browned.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffed Mushrooms:
- For extra flavor, you can sauté the mushroom stems in butter before adding them to the filling.
- Don't overfill the mushroom caps, as they might overflow during baking.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the mushrooms for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss.
Variations:
- Spicy Stuffed Mushrooms: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms: Omit the sausage and add cooked quinoa or lentils to the filling for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for one stuffed mushroom (using the recipe above) is approximately 150-200 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities you use.
This stuffed mushroom recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Its delicious flavors and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for both everyday cooking and special occasions. Enjoy!