Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese and Sausage are the perfect answer. This recipe is a delightful blend of savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and earthy mushrooms, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a fantastic appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or even a light meal on its own. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for added texture
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare 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 to scoop out any excess dirt from the mushroom caps.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds a rich depth of flavor to the stuffing.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing
Add the minced garlic to the cooked sausage and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. If using, gently fold in the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
Spoon the sausage and cream cheese mixture into the prepared mushroom caps, filling them generously.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is bubbly and lightly browned.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Choose the right mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms hold their shape well during baking, making them ideal for stuffing.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the mushrooms space in the baking dish for even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Stuffed Mushrooms: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a kick.
- Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms: Replace the sausage with cooked lentils or finely chopped vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Cheese Lovers' Delight: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top before baking for extra cheesiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values based on your specific recipe.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy and delicious recipe for Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese and Sausage is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both simple and sophisticated. Enjoy!