Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delectable appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the rich, savory taste of crabmeat. These stuffed mushrooms are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients (24 Servings)
- 24 large brown mushrooms
- ¾ lb crabmeat
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (divided into two ½ cup portions)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided into two ½ cup portions)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided into two ½ cup portions)
- 3 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp horseradish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (divided into two 1 tbsp portions)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the Mushrooms:
- Gently wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set the caps aside. Finely chop the stems and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Filling
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crabmeat, chopped mushroom stems, lemon juice, ½ cup panko bread crumbs, ½ cup melted butter, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 tbsp chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms
- Fill the Mushroom Caps:
- Spoon the crab mixture into each mushroom cap, pressing down slightly to ensure the filling is secure.
- Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup panko bread crumbs, ½ cup melted butter, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tbsp chopped parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Top the Mushrooms:
- Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the stuffed mushrooms.
Step 4: Bake the Mushrooms
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy these delicious and elegant appetizers!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Crabmeat: Use fresh or high-quality canned crabmeat for the best flavor. Make sure to pick through the crabmeat to remove any shells.
- Mushrooms: Large brown mushrooms (also known as cremini mushrooms) work best for this recipe, but you can also use white button mushrooms.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Replace the crabmeat with a mixture of cream cheese, feta cheese, and fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil for a vegetarian option.
- Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each stuffed mushroom before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. What can I serve with Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?
These stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them with a dipping sauce like aioli or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I use imitation crabmeat?
Yes, you can use imitation crabmeat if you prefer, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delicious and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any special occasion. With their rich, savory flavor and delightful texture, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday gathering, or just a special treat, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give these Savory Crab Stuffed Mushrooms a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful appetizer. Happy cooking!