Stuffed Mushrooms Italian Sausage: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Stuffed mushrooms Italian sausage are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and I’m thrilled to share my family’s cherished recipe with you! Imagine biting into a plump, juicy mushroom, bursting with savory Italian sausage, fragrant herbs, and melted cheese. It’s an explosion of flavor in every bite, and trust me, these little morsels disappear fast!

While the exact origins of stuffed mushrooms are debated, the concept of filling mushrooms with delicious ingredients has been around for centuries. Many cultures have their own versions, using local ingredients and spices. This particular recipe, featuring Italian sausage, is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Italy, where simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed into unforgettable dishes.

What makes stuffed mushrooms Italian sausage so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the earthy chewiness of the mushroom, the satisfying crumble of the sausage, and the gooey, melted cheese that binds it all together. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, a side dish with your favorite Italian meal, or even as a light lunch. The savory, umami-rich flavor profile is universally appealing, making them a guaranteed hit with everyone. And let’s be honest, who can resist a bite-sized piece of pure deliciousness?

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs large white or cremini mushrooms (about 18-24 mushrooms), stems removed and reserved
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (I prefer sweet, but you can use hot!)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Preparing the Sausage Filling:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the Italian sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. This is a crucial step to ensure the filling isn’t greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; properly softened onions add a lot of flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Mushroom Stems: Add the minced garlic and the finely chopped mushroom stems to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Deglaze with Wine (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a depth of flavor to the filling. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. I like to use my hands to really get everything incorporated.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: This is important! Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might need a little more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese depending on your preference.

Stuffing the Mushrooms:

1. Prepare the Mushroom Caps: Gently wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel. Avoid washing them under running water, as they can absorb too much water and become soggy.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the inside of each mushroom cap with olive oil. This will help prevent them from drying out during baking.
3. Fill the Mushroom Caps: Using a spoon or your fingers, generously fill each mushroom cap with the sausage filling. Pack the filling firmly into the caps. Don’t be afraid to overfill them slightly; the filling will shrink a bit during baking.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup easier.
5. Top with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with additional grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a nice golden-brown crust.

Baking the Stuffed Mushrooms:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking.
2. Bake the Mushrooms: Bake the stuffed mushrooms for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and heated through. The exact baking time will depend on the size of the mushrooms and your oven.
3. Check for Doneness: To check for doneness, insert a fork into the mushroom cap. It should be tender and easily pierced. The filling should be heated through and slightly browned.
4. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): If you want the tops of the mushrooms to be even more browned, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch them closely to prevent burning!
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed mushrooms rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and make them easier to handle.

Serving Suggestions:

These stuffed mushrooms are delicious served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the stuffed mushrooms on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• As a Light Meal: Serve them with a side salad for a satisfying and healthy meal.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor and visual appeal.

Tips and Variations:

• Mushroom Variety: While I prefer white or cremini mushrooms, you can also use portobello mushrooms for a larger, more substantial stuffed mushroom. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Sausage Variety: Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo or chicken sausage.
• Cheese Variety: You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyere.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with cooked quinoa, lentils, or chopped vegetables.
• Add Spinach: Add a handful of chopped spinach to the filling for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: Stuffed mushrooms can be frozen before baking. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Breadcrumb Options: Panko breadcrumbs will give a crispier topping than regular breadcrumbs. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Herb Variations: Try using different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary, in the filling.
• Nut Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling for added texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting:

• Mushrooms are Soggy: Make sure you don’t wash the mushrooms under running water. Wipe them clean with a damp paper towel instead. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the mushrooms to steam instead of bake.
• Filling is Dry: Add a little more cream cheese or olive oil to the filling to moisten it.
• Filling is Too Wet: Add a little more breadcrumbs to the filling to absorb excess moisture.
• Mushrooms are Burning: Lower the oven temperature slightly or cover the mushrooms with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
• Filling is Not Cooked Through: Increase the baking time or broil the mushrooms for a few minutes to ensure the filling is heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (2-3 mushrooms)
• Fat: 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: 8-12g
• Cholesterol: 70-90mg
• Sodium: 400-500mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 2-4g
• Protein: 15-20g

Enjoy your delicious homemade stuffed mushrooms! I hope you find this recipe helpful and that you and your loved ones enjoy them as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make them your own!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage are truly a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms, savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and creamy cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. I promise, once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again! What makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The mushrooms provide a delightful chewiness, while the sausage adds a hearty richness. The herbs bring a touch of freshness, and the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer of deliciousness. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make! You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up a batch of these beauties. The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. But the best part? These stuffed mushrooms are incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and customize them to your liking.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

* As an Appetizer: Serve them warm as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party or get-together. They’re always a hit! * As a Side Dish: Pair them with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal. * As a Light Meal: Enjoy a few stuffed mushrooms with a side salad for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. * Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a little extra heat. * Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of parmesan. * Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with finely chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also add some cooked quinoa or lentils for extra protein. * Breadcrumb Topping: For a crispy topping, sprinkle the stuffed mushrooms with breadcrumbs before baking. * Herb Variations: Try using different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or parsley, to customize the flavor profile. I truly believe that these stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage will become a new favorite in your household. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant dinner parties. The possibilities are endless! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences. Tag me on social media and let me know what variations you tried. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these amazing stuffed mushrooms! I can’t wait to hear what you think of this stuffed mushrooms Italian sausage recipe!

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