Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect party appetizer. Make the rich cream cheese filling up to 3 days in advance to simplify party planning. When served fresh from the oven, these delicious stuffed mushrooms will disappear quickly!

Introduction

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic appetizer that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the savory goodness of Italian sausage, cream cheese, and Parmesan. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, gatherings, or even as a tasty snack. The best part is that you can prepare the filling ahead of time, making your party planning a breeze. Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive appetizer that will surely become a favorite at your events.

Ingredients

• 20 medium to large cremini mushrooms or white button mushrooms, stems removed and set aside
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon marjoram
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small cubes
• 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preparing the Mushrooms

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Clean the Mushrooms: Lightly rinse the mushrooms to remove dirt and promptly dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Alternatively, wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. Never soak mushrooms in water as they absorb moisture.

Making the Filling

3. Heat the Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Cook the Sausage: Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Brown the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add Onions and Garlic: When the sausage is about halfway browned, add the finely chopped onion and cook for several minutes until the onion is soft. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, marjoram, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.

Combining Ingredients

6. Mix with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, combine the cooled sausage mixture with the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Stir until well combined.

Stuffing the Mushrooms

7. Fill the Mushroom Caps: Spoon or scoop the sausage mixture into the mushroom caps, mounding it slightly.
8. Garnish and Bake: Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining parsley over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

• Cleaning Mushrooms: Mushrooms are like sponges, so it’s important to clean them properly. Lightly rinse them and promptly dry them with paper towels, or wipe them with a damp paper towel.
• Breadcrumb Substitution: You can substitute Panko breadcrumbs for Italian breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• Fresh Parmesan: For optimal flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Softening Cream Cheese: Always soften your cream cheese and cut it into small cubes; this makes it much easier to combine with other ingredients.
• Stuffing Made Easy: Use a small scoop to stuff the mushrooms. It makes the process faster and neater.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or a spicy variety for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it easier to assemble and bake the mushrooms on the day of your event.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until heated through, or in the microwave for a few minutes.

Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed mushrooms. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

What can I serve with sausage stuffed mushrooms?

These mushrooms are great on their own as an appetizer, but you can also serve them with a dipping sauce like marinara or a creamy garlic sauce. They also pair well with a fresh salad or a platter of assorted cheeses and crackers.

How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?

To prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy, make sure they are thoroughly dried after cleaning. Also, avoid overstuffing them, as too much filling can release moisture during baking.

Can I use this recipe for larger portobello mushrooms?

Yes, you can use larger portobello mushrooms. Adjust the baking time to ensure they are cooked through, which might be slightly longer than the time for smaller mushrooms.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the sausage with a plant-based sausage or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and onions.

Enjoy these delectable Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering. Their rich, savory filling and easy preparation make them a favorite for any occasion.