Stuffed mushrooms with garlic and herbs are a savory, bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy night in. These mushrooms are filled with a flavorful blend of garlic, herbs, and cheese, creating a delicious contrast between the juicy mushroom and the creamy, savory filling. The best part? They’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for easy entertaining.

In this guide, we’ll go over how to make stuffed mushrooms with garlic and herbs, plus tips for achieving a perfect golden top and variations to customize the filling.

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1. Ingredients for Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty stuffed mushrooms:

• Button or Cremini Mushrooms – 16-18 medium, stems removed
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, divided (for sautéing and brushing)
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Cream Cheese – 4 oz, softened (or use ricotta for a lighter filling)
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup, grated
• Breadcrumbs – 1/4 cup, plus more for topping
• Fresh Herbs – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (parsley, thyme, rosemary, or a mix)
• Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
• Fresh Parsley – for garnish, optional

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs

Follow these steps to make flavorful, cheesy stuffed mushrooms:

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and gently remove the stems, setting the caps aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Finely chop the mushroom stems.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked mushroom stems and garlic, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms

1. Brush the mushroom caps with the remaining olive oil, inside and out, and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, pressing it down slightly to secure. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or breadcrumbs on top for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Mushrooms

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden.
2. Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

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3. Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms

3.1 Use Fresh, Firm Mushrooms

Choose mushrooms that are fresh and firm for the best texture. Button and cremini mushrooms hold up well in the oven and are easy to stuff.

3.2 Don’t Overstuff the Caps

Avoid overfilling the mushroom caps to prevent spilling. Lightly press the filling to keep it in place.

3.3 Use Softened Cream Cheese

Softened cream cheese is easier to blend with other ingredients, making the filling smooth and easy to spoon.

3.4 Add a Crisp Topping

For extra crunch, top the mushrooms with a bit of panko breadcrumbs or extra Parmesan cheese.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Spicy Stuffed Mushrooms

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.

4.2 Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Mix in a handful of sautéed spinach with the filling for added greens and a creamy texture.

4.3 Bacon and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms

Add chopped, cooked bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbs.

4.4 Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms

Use vegan cream cheese and skip the Parmesan, adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer on their own but also pair well with other snacks and sides:

• As Part of an Appetizer Platter: Serve with bruschetta, stuffed olives, and mini quiches for a variety of flavors.
• With a Charcuterie Board: Arrange with cured meats, cheeses, and crackers for a more substantial snack spread.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a light side salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
• Alongside Pasta: Serve these stuffed mushrooms as a delicious side with pasta for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to keep the filling warm and the tops slightly crisp.

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7. Making Ahead for Gatherings

Stuffed mushrooms can be prepared in advance for convenient party planning:

1. Assemble the Mushrooms: Prepare the mushrooms and make the filling as directed. Stuff the mushrooms but don’t bake.
2. Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the stuffed mushrooms for up to a day in advance.
3. Bake When Ready to Serve: Pop them in the oven as directed when you’re ready to serve.

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FAQ

1. Can I use large mushrooms?

Yes, portobello mushrooms can be used for larger servings. Adjust the baking time as needed.

2. Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

Freezing is not recommended, as the mushrooms may become watery upon thawing. They’re best prepared fresh or refrigerated for a short time.

3. How do I keep the filling from being watery?

Using firmer mushrooms and removing excess liquid from the cooked stems helps prevent watery filling.

4. Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes! Crumbled sausage or ground turkey can be added to the filling for a heartier bite.

5. Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes, skip the breadcrumbs for a low-carb version, or use almond flour as a gluten-free alternative.

6. How do I make stuffed mushrooms dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

7. Should I serve stuffed mushrooms hot or cold?

Stuffed mushrooms are best served warm, as the filling will be creamy and the mushrooms tender.

8. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use half the amount if substituting with dried herbs, as they’re more concentrated.

9. How can I make the filling even creamier?

Add a spoonful of sour cream or a little extra cream cheese for an ultra-creamy filling.

10. Can I add different cheeses?

Yes! Try mixing in mozzarella, Gruyère, or cheddar for a unique cheesy twist.

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Stuffed mushrooms with garlic and herbs are a classic, flavorful appetizer that combines tender mushrooms with a savory, cheesy filling. Perfect for entertaining, these mushrooms are easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with any crowd. Enjoy!