Description
These delicious Stuffed Mushrooms are a perfect appetizer featuring cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and crispy bacon. Baked until golden and tender, they make an ideal bite-sized treat for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 oz plain cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or freshly grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 2 Tbsp parsley leaves, finely chopped plus more for garnish
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 strips of bacon, regular cut
Mushrooms
- 24 cremini mushrooms (about 1 pound)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms gently using a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully pinch and remove the stems from each mushroom. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a rimmed baking sheet and set it aside for later use.
- Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon strips for about 3 minutes per side, or until they are crisp and browned. Transfer the cooked bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small bits and set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix and mash all ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated. Fold in half of the chopped bacon bits into the mixture.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Using a small cookie scoop or about 2 teaspoons, evenly distribute the filling into each mushroom cap. Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly. Sprinkle the remaining bacon bits over the tops of the stuffed mushrooms.
- Bake the Mushrooms: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the mushrooms are softened and the tops begin to brown in spots.
- Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Cleaning mushrooms with a damp paper towel instead of rinsing helps prevent them from absorbing excess water and becoming soggy.
- Baking ensures the mushrooms are soft but not overly cooked, maintaining their texture and allowing the filling to brown nicely.
