Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a luxurious appetizer that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! These elegant stuffed mushrooms are a secret weapon in any home chef's arsenal, offering a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors that will leave your guests absolutely impressed. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet moment, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 1 cup crab meat or liver pâté
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Carefully clean the mushrooms using a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Gently remove the stems, creating a hollow cavity for stuffing. Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crab meat or liver pâté with the chopped mushroom stems, breadcrumbs, melted butter, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Season the stuffing mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure even seasoning.
- Using a small spoon, carefully fill each mushroom cap with the prepared stuffing mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling is compact and slightly mounded.
- Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
- Optional: For extra richness, you can sprinkle a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Tips
- Choose large, firm mushrooms with deep caps to ensure maximum stuffing potential.
- Always clean mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel instead of washing them directly to prevent water absorption.
- For the most consistent texture, ensure your stuffing mixture is well-combined and not too wet.
- Don't overfill the mushrooms - a slightly mounded top is ideal for even cooking.
- Let the mushrooms rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set and prevent burning.
- Experiment with different protein options like crab meat or liver pâté to suit your preference.
- For added texture, consider toasting the breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the stuffing.
- Fresh herbs like chives can dramatically enhance the final flavor profile of your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
