If you’re in search of an appetizer that marries the ocean’s bounty with earthy mushrooms, look no further than our delectable Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Bursting with creamy goodness and the rich flavors of crab, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect prelude to a delightful meal or an excellent party dish that will leave your guests clamoring for more. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and uncover the secrets to creating this divine appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 12 medium button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, cleaned with stems removed and discarded
- Olive oil spray
- 1 box (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian parsley
- 1 cup cooked shelled crab, finely chopped (I use King Crab)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Lightly spray mushrooms with olive oil and arrange them cap side down on a baking sheet or dish.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, bread crumbs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, green onions, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chopped crab. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes. Turn on the broiler in the last minute to lightly brown the tops. Stay close, as broilers can be unpredictable.
Pro Tips and Notes:
- Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Reheat in the microwave for short intervals at reduced power.
- Add a Kick: Enhance the flavor with 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper.
- Precook Mushrooms: Precook mushrooms for 2-3 minutes to avoid dripping when bitten into.
- Size Matters: Use large button mushrooms for a heartier appetizer or smaller ones for a party setting.
- Crab Meat: Opt for finely chopped cooked crab meat for the best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for superior flavor.
- Bread Crumbs: Fresh bread crumbs provide excellent texture; consider crushing croutons for a more natural alternative.
Conclusion: Elevate your appetizer game with the irresistible Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet delight, these stuffed mushrooms are a symphony of flavors that celebrate the harmony of land and sea. Embrace the art of cooking and indulge in the exquisite joy these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms bring to your palate. 🦀🍄✨