Baked mushrooms with cheese are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish. They’re rich, savory, and perfect for a quick snack or entertaining guests. Here’s a straightforward recipe to make them:
Baked Mushrooms with Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 large mushrooms (such as cremini or button), stems removed and cleaned
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare Mushrooms: Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems and set the mushroom caps aside. Finely chop the mushroom stems.
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Sauté Stems: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic. Cook until the stems are softened and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked mushroom stems and garlic with the shredded cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs (if using), and chopped parsley or thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
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Stuff Mushrooms: Brush the mushroom caps with the remaining olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to pack it in.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
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Serve: Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Tips:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese for varied flavors.
- Add Protein: For a heartier option, mix in some cooked bacon bits or finely chopped ham into the cheese mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mushrooms up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
These cheesy baked mushrooms are sure to be a hit whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or a tasty snack. Enjoy!
