These sausage stuffed mushrooms are little bites of joy! Filled with a tasty mixture of sausage, cheese, and herbs, they’re perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! They’re super easy to make, and I love how they disappear from the plate in no time. Get ready for a fun flavor party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: I recommend using large cremini or white mushrooms, as they hold up well and have great flavor. If you can’t find them, portobello mushrooms can work, just increase baking time since they are larger.
Italian Sausage: Sweet or spicy, both work well! You can swap it out for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian dish.
Cheeses: Parmesan and mozzarella are my go-to for their taste and creaminess. If you want a twist, try feta or goat cheese for the filling. Just adjust the amount to keep the consistency right!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are perfect here, but you could use panko for an extra crispy topping or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
How Do You Get the Mushrooms Tender and Delicious?
The key to tender mushrooms is ensuring they’re not overcooked or undercooked. First, clean them gently without soaking in water, as excess moisture can make them soggy. Here’s how to get the right texture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- Cook the filling until just browned and set aside—it retains its moisture, keeping the stuffing flavorful.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! This allows the mushrooms to roast nicely instead of steaming.
- Bake them for 20-25 minutes to get that perfect fork-tender bite while achieving a lovely golden top.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly tender and delicious stuffed mushrooms that everyone will love!
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 20 large cremini or white mushrooms, stems removed and finely chopped
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in about 40-45 minutes, you’ll have delicious, warm stuffed mushrooms ready to wow your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, let’s get things heated up! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming, take a baking sheet and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Clean and Chop the Mushrooms:
Gently clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and finely chop them. Set your mushroom caps aside for later; we’ll fill them up soon!
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage into the pan. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked, which will take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Next, add the chopped mushroom stems, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with your sausage. Cook this mixture until the onions become translucent and the mushroom stems soften, around 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Combine the Filling:
Grab a bowl and transfer the sausage mixture into it. Add in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix everything together well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fill the Mushroom Caps:
Now comes the fun part! Take the sausage mixture and spoon it generously into each mushroom cap. Press down gently to ensure they are well filled but be careful not to overfill them.
7. Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms:
Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are beautifully golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the mushrooms from the oven and sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve warm and watch them disappear in a flash!
Enjoy these crowd-pleasing sausage stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or party snack! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage as a substitute. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can These Mushrooms Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the mushroom caps a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Mushrooms?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms?
These stuffed mushrooms are great on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or alongside a mixed greens salad for a lovely starter! Enjoy!