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Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Featured in Simple Starters & Snacks.

These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms transform simple ingredients into an impressive appetizer that's perfect for holiday gatherings and parties. The recipe starts with large white mushrooms that serve as the perfect vessels for the rich filling. The magic happens when savory Italian sausage combines with creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and a touch of breadcrumbs for texture. The contrast between the juicy mushroom base and the crispy, golden topping creates a perfect bite - crunchy on top with a creamy, savory center. What makes these special is their ability to deliver complex flavors and textures in a single bite-sized appetizer. They're substantial enough to satisfy hungry guests yet elegant enough for upscale gatherings. The recipe's 30-minute total time makes it practical for entertaining, while the finished presentation always impresses.
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Chef Zaho
Updated on Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:26:07 GMT
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The perfect Sausage Stuffed Mushroom delivers that wonderful contrast of crispy topping and juicy, savory filling in one delicious bite. These impressive little appetizers have become my signature party dish after years of perfecting the balance between the creamy cheese and flavorful sausage. Through countless holiday gatherings, I've discovered that the secret lies in properly preparing the mushroom caps and not overcooking them.

Last New Year's Eve, I brought these to a potluck gathering, and they disappeared within minutes. The host later confessed she hid two in the kitchen for herself. The secret was using quality Italian sausage and not skimping on the cream cheese.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Mushrooms: Choose large, firm white mushrooms with closed caps
  • Italian Sausage: Mild works best, but hot adds a nice kick if you prefer
  • Cream Cheese: Full-fat provides the best creamy texture
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create superior crunch
  • Parmesan: Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre-packaged
  • Fresh Herbs: Don't substitute dried; they provide essential brightness
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Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. Perfect the Mushroom Prep

Step 1:
Clean gently with damp paper towels, never submerge in water
Step 2:
Remove stems completely with a gentle twist
Step 3:
Carefully scoop out brown gills with a small spoon
Step 4:
Create maximum space for filling without breaking caps

2. Create the Flavorful Filling

Step 1:
Cook sausage until truly browned for best flavor
Step 2:
Drain excess fat but leave a little for richness
Step 3:
Add garlic just until fragrant to prevent burning
Step 4:
Incorporate cream cheese while mixture is still warm

3. Master the Baking Technique

Step 1:
Fill caps slightly above the rim for a generous portion
Step 2:
Bake until mushrooms release their moisture but remain firm
Step 3:
Look for golden brown topping and visible juices

My grandmother taught me to taste the filling before stuffing the mushrooms - this simple step ensures perfect seasoning every time.

Make-Ahead Strategy

I often prepare these completely up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate covered, and then bake just before serving. The flavor actually improves with a little time.

Temperature Tips

A hot 400°F oven creates that perfect crispy top while quickly cooking the mushrooms without making them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a warmed platter with fresh herb garnish for the most attractive presentation. The warm platter helps keep them at the perfect temperature longer.

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Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms - Easy Party Appetizer Recipe | alicesrecipes.com

Final Thoughts: These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms represent the perfect party appetizer - impressive looking yet simple to prepare. The combination of creamy, savory filling and tender mushroom creates something truly greater than the sum of its parts. Whether served at an elegant cocktail party or casual family gathering, they never fail to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare these stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours ahead. Complete all steps except baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add 2-3 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
→ What's the best way to clean mushrooms?
Wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel rather than rinsing them. Mushrooms absorb water like sponges and can become soggy if washed directly.
→ Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Spicy Italian sausage adds a nice kick, while breakfast sausage or chorizo will change the flavor profile while still being delicious.
→ How do I make these gluten-free?
Simply omit the panko breadcrumbs or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Verify your sausage is gluten-free as some may contain fillers.
→ Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?
Yes, but freeze them before baking. Arrange on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Creamy Italian Appetizer Mushrooms

Tender mushroom caps filled with a creamy mixture of Italian sausage, herbs, and cheese, then baked until golden and crispy on top - the perfect party appetizer.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Fati Zaho

Category: Quick Bites

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 20 Servings (20 stuffed mushrooms)

Dietary: Low-Carb

Ingredients

→ Mushrooms

01 2 lbs large white mushrooms (20 count)

→ Filling

02 16 oz ground mild Italian sausage
03 4 oz cream cheese, diced
04 1 garlic clove, minced
05 2 Tbsp green onion or chives, finely chopped, plus more to garnish
06 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
07 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
08 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (omit if gluten free)

Instructions

Step 01

Wipe mushrooms clean with damp paper towels. Remove stems and scoop out the brown gills from inside the mushrooms, being careful not to break through shells. Arrange mushroom caps with the opening facing up on rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silpat.

Step 02

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook sausage until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula into crumbles. Don't add oil since the sausage will release plenty. Use tongs to push a paper towel around the bottom of the pan to soak up and discard excess oil.

Step 03

Reduce heat to medium/low and add 1 garlic minced garlic clove and 2 Tbsp chopped chives. Stir 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in diced cream cheese until it starts melting it's ok if not completely smooth.

Step 04

Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup bread crumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese and 2 Tbsp parsley.

Step 05

Divide stuffing mixture between mushroom caps then bake uncovered in the center of the oven at 400˚F for 15 minutes or until mushrooms are softened and topping is golden brown. Transfer to serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley to serve.

Notes

  1. Omit breadcrumbs for gluten-free version
  2. Each mushroom is approximately 116 calories
  3. Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving

Tools You'll Need

  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Spoon for scooping

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains wheat (if using panko)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 116
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~