These blue cheese and walnut stuffed mushrooms are a tasty treat! Juicy mushrooms hold a creamy filling made with rich blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, making every bite special.
They’re perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Trust me, once you pop one in your mouth, you won’t want to stop! I love serving them warm straight from the oven; they always disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mushrooms: Large cremini or white button mushrooms are ideal for stuffing. If you can’t find them, consider using portobello mushrooms for a heartier option, or even smaller mushrooms for bite-sized treats.
Blue Cheese: Blue cheese adds a bold flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with feta, goat cheese, or even ricotta for a milder taste. Each will change the flavor profile slightly, but they all work great!
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts bring a lovely crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great alternatives. They still add texture without the risk of allergies.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the filling. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cakes for the same crispy effect.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Stuffed Mushrooms?
Stuffing mushrooms sounds easy, but it’s all about technique! Follow these steps to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- **Prepare the Caps**: Clean the mushrooms gently and remove the stems carefully. Make sure they’re dry to avoid excess moisture.
- **Cook the Filling**: Always sauté the chopped stems and garlic first. This develops their flavors and ensures a moisture-less filling.
- **Fill Generously**: Don’t skimp on the filling! Press it in a bit to pack it, but be careful not to overstuff, as the mushrooms will shrink while cooking.
- **Bake Until Golden**: Watch for golden tops and tender mushrooms. Let them cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.
Enjoy these delightful bites at your next gathering or simply as a tasty snack. They’re always a hit!
Blue Cheese And Walnut Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16 large cremini or white button mushrooms
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes to get these mouth-watering stuffed mushrooms ready for your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
2. Clean the Mushrooms:
Gently wipe each mushroom with a damp cloth to clean them. Once clean, carefully twist and remove the stems. Make sure to chop the stems finely and keep them aside, as they will be used in the filling.
3. Sauté the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté them until they’re soft and give off a lovely aroma—about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom stems and garlic with the crumbled blue cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, and parsley. Mix everything together until well combined, and add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the Mushrooms:
Take the mixture and generously spoon it into each mushroom cap, pressing down gently to fill them well. Don’t be shy; pack those caps with flavor!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the stuffed mushrooms on your prepared baking sheet. If you’d like, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts and parsley on top for a nice finish before baking.
7. Bake:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. The mushrooms should be tender, and the tops will turn golden and bubbly.
8. Final Touch:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful blue cheese and walnut stuffed mushrooms as a delicious appetizer or side dish. They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with feta, goat cheese, or even a mild cheese like cream cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor. Each will bring its own twist to the dish!
Can I Make These Stuffed Mushrooms Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the mushrooms a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. When cooking, you may need to add a couple of extra minutes if they are chilled.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Mushrooms?
Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Mushrooms?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the mushrooms cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
