Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer for any holiday gathering—*thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms*! Seriously, these little gems are a showstopper. They’re packed with a savory mixture that’s bursting with flavor, making them the perfect bite-sized treat for your guests to enjoy while mingling. What I love most is how easy they are to whip up! You can have them prepped and in the oven in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities. Trust me, once you take a bite of that warm, cheesy goodness, you’ll be hooked, and your guests will be begging for the recipe!
Ingredients List
- 16 large mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
- 1 cup packed breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare *Thanksgiving Stuffed Mushrooms*
Prepping the Mushrooms
First things first, let’s get those mushrooms ready! Start by gently cleaning the mushrooms under cool running water; you can use a damp paper towel if you prefer to dry them off. Make sure to remove the stems carefully—just a little twist and pull should do the trick. Don’t throw those stems away! You can chop them up and add them to your stuffing mixture for extra flavor. Oh, and be gentle! Mushrooms can be delicate, and we don’t want any squished caps.
Making the Stuffing Mixture
Now, let’s whip up that delicious stuffing! In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I like to mix it with a fork to get everything evenly distributed, but feel free to use your hands for that extra love! You want a mixture that holds together but isn’t too dry. If it feels crumbly, just add a smidge more cream cheese.
Stuffing the Mushrooms
Grab your mushroom caps and let’s get stuffing! Using a spoon (or your hands if you’re feeling adventurous), fill each cap generously with the stuffing mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! I usually aim for a nice mound on top. This not only makes them look appealing but ensures everyone gets a hearty bite of that scrumptious filling. If you have any leftover stuffing, you can pop it into a small dish and bake alongside the mushrooms!
Baking the Mushrooms
Once all your mushrooms are stuffed and looking fabulous, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown on top and the mushrooms are tender. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be incredible—trust me, your guests will be eager to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy
Let me tell you, these *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms* are a breeze to make! With just 15 minutes of prep and only 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in about 35 minutes flat. It’s perfect for those busy holiday gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Seriously, you can whip these up while chatting with friends or pouring yourself a glass of wine!
Flavorful and Savory
The moment you bite into these mushrooms, you’re hit with a delightful explosion of flavors! The creamy cream cheese perfectly complements the nutty Parmesan, while the garlic and fresh parsley add that lovely aromatic touch. And don’t get me started on that Italian seasoning—it ties everything together beautifully! Each stuffing is like a warm hug, making it oh-so-satisfying and comforting. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Perfect for Gatherings
These stuffed mushrooms are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! They’re bite-sized, easy to handle, and absolutely delicious, making them ideal for holiday parties and family gatherings. You can set them out on a platter, and I promise, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “thanksgiving”! Plus, they’re vegetarian, so they cater to a variety of dietary preferences. Everyone will want to know your secret for this delightful appetizer!
Tips for Success
To make your *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms* absolutely perfect, here are a few handy tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses truly elevate the flavor of your stuffing. Don’t skimp on the freshness—your taste buds will thank you!
- Don’t Overstuff: While you want a generous amount of stuffing, be careful not to overstuff the mushrooms. They should be full but not overflowing, which helps them cook evenly.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding chopped cooked sausage, bacon, or even different cheeses can give your stuffing a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Let Them Cool Briefly: Once they’re out of the oven, allow the mushrooms to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This lets the flavors settle and makes them easier to handle!
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, prep these mushrooms early! You can stuff them a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most scrumptious stuffed mushrooms that everyone will be raving about!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with your *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms*! Here are a few of my favorite ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Cheesy Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach and swap out the cream cheese for ricotta or goat cheese for a delightful twist. The creaminess paired with the earthiness of spinach is simply divine!
- Meaty Goodness: For those who love a heartier bite, add some crumbled cooked sausage or crispy bacon to your stuffing. This adds a savory depth that everyone will love. Just remember to adjust your seasonings accordingly!
- Fiesta Flavor: Spice things up by adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the stuffing. Top with a bit of shredded cheddar for a Mexican-inspired treat that will have your guests raving!
- Mediterranean Delight: Toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. The burst of flavors will take your stuffed mushrooms to the next level!
- Sweet and Savory: Add some finely chopped apples or pears to the mix for a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory ingredients. A hint of cinnamon can also elevate this unique flavor profile.
With these variations, you can customize your *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms* to fit any theme or taste preference. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to try them all! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these scrumptious *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms*, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if they last that long!). Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them to keep that delightful flavor intact!
First, let your stuffed mushrooms cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container; if you have a lot, you might want to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to enjoy them before they start to lose their magic!
When it’s time to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mushrooms on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the tops are slightly crispy again. You could also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option, but I find that the oven really helps maintain that lovely texture. Just be careful not to overheat them in the microwave, as they can become a bit mushy.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms* even after the party’s over. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, I know you’re probably wondering about the nutritional value of these delicious *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms*. Here’s a rough estimate per serving (that’s one mushroom), so you can enjoy them guilt-free:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But no matter the numbers, one thing’s for sure: these stuffed mushrooms are a tasty addition to any holiday feast! Enjoy every bite, and don’t worry too much about the calories—they’re worth it!
FAQ Section
Can I use smaller mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use smaller mushrooms if you prefer bite-sized appetizers. Just keep in mind that the baking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on them while they cook!
Can I make these mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Stuff the mushrooms a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re going in cold.
What should I serve with stuffed mushrooms?
These *thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms* are perfect on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips or sauces! A nice marinara or even a creamy ranch dressing on the side can elevate the experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the stuffed mushrooms cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat them properly before enjoying them again!
Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
While I recommend enjoying them fresh, you can freeze them before baking. Just stuff them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
Thanksgiving Stuffed Mushrooms: 7 Savory Delights to Savor
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious appetizer featuring mushrooms stuffed with a savory mixture.
Ingredients
- 16 large mushrooms
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mushroom
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms











