Food

CREAMY CRAB STUFFED MUSHROOMS

by admin2

Hey foodies! Today, we’re turning ordinary mushrooms into bite-sized bites of heaven with my Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms recipe. Picture plump mushrooms generously filled with a luscious blend of crab, creaminess, and a hint of magic. These little flavor bombs are perfect for elevating your appetizer game or stealing the spotlight at your next gathering. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into the world of irresistibly creamy crab stuffed mushrooms!

INGREDIENTS

  • 12 medium button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms cleaned with stems removed and discarded
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 box (8 ounce) cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs or panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian parsley
  • 1 cup cooked shelled crab finely chopped (I use King Crab)
  • salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Lightly spray mushrooms with olive oil spray and arrange mushrooms cap side down on a baking sheet or baking dish. In a large bowl, stir the cream cheese, bread crumbs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, green onions, Parmesan, parsley, and crab meat.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom. Bake for 20 minutes. Turn the broiler on at the last minute of cooking to brown the tops lightly. Stay close by, as I have always found broilers unpredictable.

NOTES

  • Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours.  Reheat in the microwave for short intervals at reduced power.
  • You can add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper for a little kick.
  • I got this hint from a reader.  Precook your mushrooms for about 2-3 minutes.  Turn them upside down on a rack and allow them to drain so they don’t drip when you bite into them.
  • If you like things to pack a little punch, then add a little bit of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper.
  • I use the great big button mushrooms, but for a party, you certainly could use the smaller mushrooms, and this recipe would go further.  Just remember to reduce your cooking time by a few minutes for the smaller mushrooms.
  • Use cooked crab meat and chop it up pretty fine.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must.  It has much better flavor than the stuff in the canister, so use it.
  • Fresh bread crumbs are amazing in this recipe.  You can always use croutons and crush them in a bag or a food processor.  Most croutons have fewer preservatives and artificial ingredients than processed bread crumbs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delectable appetizer featuring mushroom caps filled with a luxurious mixture of crab meat, creaminess, and savory seasonings.

What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Large white or cremini mushrooms work well for stuffing. Their size and texture make them ideal vessels for holding the creamy crab filling.

Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned or fresh crab meat, depending on availability and preference. Ensure that it’s well-drained if using canned.

What contributes to the creamy texture of the filling?

A combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and other seasonings contributes to the rich and creamy texture of the crab filling.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the crab filling in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble and bake the stuffed mushrooms.

How long do I bake Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

The baking time typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the mushrooms are tender, and the filling is heated through and lightly browned.

What can I serve as a dipping sauce for these stuffed mushrooms?

A simple aioli, lemon-garlic sauce, or a tangy cocktail sauce pairs well with Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Can I freeze Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

It’s not recommended to freeze them, as the mushrooms may become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture. Freshly baked is the best way to enjoy them.

Can I substitute ingredients in the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of your favorite cheese to customize the flavor of the crab filling to your liking.

What occasions are perfect for serving these stuffed mushrooms?

Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a fantastic choice for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or any event where you want to impress with a luxurious and bite-sized appetizer.