These sausage stuffed mushrooms are a tasty treat that’s hard to resist! Juicy mushrooms filled with savory sausage and cheese make the perfect bite-sized snacks.
Whenever I make these, my family can’t get enough! I love serving them at parties—or just keeping them for myself. Who could blame me? They’re that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: I recommend using large cremini or white mushrooms. They’re meaty and hold up well. If you can’t find them, portobello mushrooms make a great choice too; just cut them into smaller pieces after roasting.
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well, too. Just check for the flavor profile you enjoy.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and richness. If you want to lighten things up, you can use ricotta instead. Cream cheese gives a thicker consistency, but both options are delicious!
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add an extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether for a lighter filling. I sometimes add crushed crackers for a different twist!
How Do I Make the Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms?
Making stuffed mushrooms sounds simple, but there are some key tips to ensure they turn out perfectly. Here’s what I suggest for success:
- When cleaning the mushrooms, be gentle to avoid bruising. Use a damp cloth instead of soaking them in water to keep them firm.
- Cook the mixture on medium heat; this ensures that the sausage cooks properly without burning. Stir regularly.
- Let the filling cool slightly before stuffing to avoid soggy mushrooms. Warm filling is easier to work with but not too hot to handle.
- Don’t overstuff the mushrooms; a generous mound is perfect but be careful not to make a mess. You want them to hold their shape!
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some extra parsley or even chili flakes on top before serving for added flavor!
Enjoy making these scrumptious bites at your next gathering or cozy night in! 😊
How to Make Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 16 large cremini or white mushrooms, stems removed and finely chopped
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional for extra texture)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll need about 40 minutes in total. It’s the perfect time to get your kitchen filled with that delicious aroma while the mushrooms bake! 🍄
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms:
Gently wipe each mushroom with a damp cloth to clean them, removing any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and chop them finely. Set the mushroom caps aside for stuffing.
3. Sauté the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until it softens and the moisture evaporates, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
5. Mix the Filling:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the sausage mixture to a bowl, allowing it to cool slightly. Then, stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese, optional bread crumbs, and chopped parsley. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Mix everything until well blended.
6. Stuff the Mushrooms:
Spoon the sausage filling into each mushroom cap, making sure to mound it slightly on top for a delicious bite.
7. Arrange and Top:
Place the stuffed mushrooms on your prepared baking sheet, then sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese over the tops of each mushroom for that gooey goodness!
8. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the mushrooms bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, allow the mushrooms to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Enjoy these savory sausage stuffed mushrooms as a delicious appetizer or party snack. They’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other varieties like chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for a flavor twist!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Freeze Stuffed Mushrooms?
Yes, these stuffed mushrooms freeze well! To freeze, prepare and stuff them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.