Spicy Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Spicy Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Spicy sausage and cheese stuffed mushrooms are a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, savory filling, creating a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.
Historically, stuffed mushrooms have roots in Italian cuisine, where they were often filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. Over the years, variations have emerged, with different regions adding their own twist. This particular version, featuring spicy sausage, is a nod to the American love for bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of traditional Italian cooking and the zest of American cuisine.
To make these stuffed mushrooms, you’ll need a few key ingredients: fresh mushrooms, spicy Italian sausage, cream cheese, and a blend of herbs and spices. The combination of creamy cheese and savory sausage creates a filling that is both rich and satisfying. As you prepare the mushrooms, you’ll notice the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they even hit the oven. Just remember, the only thing better than the smell of these mushrooms is the taste!
As you serve these stuffed mushrooms, don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you can say ‘pass the appetizers!’ They’re perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or simply as a delicious snack. And if anyone asks for the recipe, just smile and say it’s a family secret—after all, who doesn’t love a little mystery in the kitchen?
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 0.5 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the mushrooms and ensuring the filling gets bubbly and golden.
- Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Avoid rinsing them under water, as mushrooms can absorb moisture and become soggy.
- Remove the stems from the mushrooms and finely chop them. Set the caps aside for stuffing and keep the chopped stems for the filling.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped mushroom stems and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Add 0.5 pound of spicy Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Garlic adds depth to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage mixture with 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper, and 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
- Mix the filling until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly chunky, perfect for stuffing into the mushroom caps.
- Using a spoon, generously fill each mushroom cap with the sausage and cheese mixture. Press down gently to ensure they are well packed.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The mushrooms should be tender, and the tops should be golden brown and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired. These stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be reheated.
- Enjoy your delicious spicy sausage and cheese stuffed mushrooms! Just remember, sharing is caring—unless it’s the last one!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Carbs g: 4
- Protein g: 10
- Fat g: 18
- Sugar g: 1
