Description
These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are a delicious and savory appetizer featuring juicy mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of Italian sausage, cream cheese, Parmesan, and herbs. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, they are baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful combination of textures and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Mushrooms
- 20 large white mushrooms (stems removed and saved)
Filling
- 1/2 lb (225g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Finishing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems from the mushroom caps and finely chop the stems to be used in the filling mixture.
- Cook the sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until it is fully browned and cooked through. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Mix the filling: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and let the filling cool slightly to make it easier to handle.
- Stuff the mushrooms: Generously fill each mushroom cap with the sausage and cheese mixture, packing the filling to ensure a good amount in every bite.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the mushrooms are tender, the filling is golden, and bubbling hot.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve the sausage stuffed mushrooms warm. They make a perfect appetizer and are sure to be enjoyed by guests.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Be sure to clean mushrooms gently to avoid them becoming soggy.
- Stuffed mushrooms can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- If you want a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with a plant-based alternative.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice subtle heat, but it’s optional.
- Use fresh parsley for best flavor and aroma.
