If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple appetizer that will wow your guests, look no further than crab stuffed mushrooms! These little bites are packed with flavor, combining the richness of crab meat with the earthy taste of mushrooms. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, making it a must-try for seafood lovers and mushroom enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 8 oz crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (3 mushrooms) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of fat, 18g of protein, and 8g of carbohydrates. This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture generously.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute crab meat with shrimp or lobster for a different seafood flavor. Additionally, vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free version, and gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great choice for those avoiding gluten.
Serving and Pairings
These crab stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to round out your meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any 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 until warmed through. It is not recommended to freeze the stuffed mushrooms as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overstuff the mushrooms; they can crack and spill filling.
- Ensure the mushrooms are cleaned properly to avoid dirt.
- Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor.
- Avoid overcooking to prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy.
- Let mushrooms cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Helpful Tips
- Try adding spices like Old Bay for an extra kick.
- Use a variety of mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crab meat can be used, but fresh crab is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the stuffing.
How do I know when the mushrooms are cooked?
The mushrooms should be golden brown and the filling should be hot and bubbly. A slight browning on top indicates they are ready to be served.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Large, firm mushrooms like portobello or cremini work best for stuffing due to their size and sturdiness.
Are crab stuffed mushrooms gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check the labels of other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Crab stuffed mushrooms are a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of the sea with the earthiness of mushrooms. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy the process of making them as much as you’ll enjoy eating them!
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 8 oz crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture generously.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
