Indulge in the exquisite flavors of crab stuffed mushrooms, a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests at any gathering. The combination of succulent crab meat and creamy cheese nestled in tender mushrooms creates a savory experience that is both elegant and simple to prepare. Perfect for parties or cozy family dinners, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
- 1 cup fresh crab meat
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 stuffed mushrooms) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 18g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise.
- Add Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully spoon the crab mixture into the mushroom caps.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crab stuffed mushrooms!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute fresh crab meat with canned crab or imitation crab for a more budget-friendly option. You can also use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
These crab stuffed mushrooms pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing salad. They can also be served alongside other appetizers, like shrimp cocktail or bruschetta, for a delightful spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can be frozen before baking; just thaw and cook when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overfilling the mushrooms can lead to a mess; fill them generously but avoid overflowing.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much salt can overpower the crab flavor; taste before seasoning.
- Skip cleaning the mushrooms thoroughly; dirt can affect the taste.
- Not letting the stuffed mushrooms cool slightly before serving can lead to burns.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh crab for the best flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like dill or chives for added freshness.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make the filling ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
- Choose mushrooms that are firm and plump for best results.
FAQs
Can I make crab stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the mushrooms just before serving for the best results.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Large, firm mushrooms like portobello or cremini are ideal for stuffing as they hold their shape and provide a sturdy base for the filling.
Can I use frozen crab meat?
Yes, frozen crab meat can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
How do I know when the mushrooms are done?
Mushrooms are done when they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A toothpick can also be inserted to check if they are heated through.
Are crab stuffed mushrooms gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them entirely for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Crab stuffed mushrooms are a delightful addition to any meal, combining the rich flavors of crab and cheese with the earthy taste of mushrooms. This recipe is easy to prepare and offers a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. Enjoy these savory bites as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a comforting snack!
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms stems removed
- 1 cup fresh crab meat
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan.
- Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and parsley to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully spoon the crab mixture into the mushroom caps.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crab stuffed mushrooms!
