Christmas Stuffed Mushrooms

Christmas stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that combines rich, creamy filling with the earthy flavor of roasted mushrooms. Perfect for holiday gatherings or festive dinners, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. With a mix of cream cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, each bite is packed with savory goodness.

What Are Christmas Stuffed Mushrooms?

Christmas stuffed mushrooms are large white or cremini mushroom caps filled with a cheesy, herby mixture and baked to golden perfection. They’re versatile, festive, and easy to customize with your favorite flavors. Whether served as a starter or a holiday party snack, these mushrooms are always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: Quick prep and bake time make this recipe ideal for busy holiday schedules.
• Festive and elegant: Adds a touch of sophistication to your Christmas table.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the filling to include your favorite cheeses, herbs, or proteins.
• Vegetarian-friendly: A great option for meat-free appetizers.

Ingredients

• 20-24 large white or cremini mushrooms (stems removed and reserved)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup (25 g) finely chopped mushroom stems
• ½ cup (120 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup (15 g) breadcrumbs (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup (30 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Mushrooms

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems. Chop the stems finely and set them aside.

Preparing the Filling

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped mushroom stems. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened, then remove from heat and let cool.
4. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooled mushroom stem mixture until fully combined.

Assembling and Baking

5. Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, mounding slightly. Sprinkle extra breadcrumbs over the tops. If desired, add a small amount of shredded mozzarella.
6. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these stuffed mushrooms warm as an appetizer or side dish.
• Pair them with a sparkling wine or a holiday cocktail for a complete festive experience.
• Add a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to round out your spread.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore their texture.

Freezing Instructions

• Stuff the mushrooms but don’t bake them. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
• Meaty Addition: Include finely chopped cooked bacon or sausage in the filling.
• Herb Swap: Replace parsley with fresh thyme, chives, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I prepare stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.

What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Large white or cremini mushrooms are ideal because they’re sturdy and have a neutral flavor that complements the filling.

Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Replace cream cheese with a vegan alternative, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and opt for plant-based breadcrumbs.

Christmas stuffed mushrooms are a must-try for any holiday gathering. They’re flavorful, festive, and easy to customize for any palate. Give this recipe a try, and let these delicious bites become a holiday tradition in your home. Share your experience or favorite variations in the comments!

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