Are you ready to impress your guests with a delicious appetizer? My Savory Spinach Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect choice for any occasion! With rich portobello mushrooms, creamy ricotta and Parmesan, and fresh spinach, this dish packs a flavorful punch. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this easy yet elegant treat. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich, creamy filling paired with the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion without a lot of fuss.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and low in carbs, these stuffed mushrooms are a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant appearance make these mushrooms a standout dish that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 12 large portobello mushrooms, cleaned with stems and gills removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
– 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
You need portobello mushrooms as the base. They are large and meaty. The spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Ricotta cheese gives a creamy texture. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
Seasonings and Additives
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garlic brings a warm, savory taste. Olive oil helps sauté the garlic and spinach. Dried herbs add depth to the filling. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they balance the flavors perfectly.
Optional Toppings
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Balsamic reduction
Fresh parsley brightens the dish with color. It also adds a fresh taste. A balsamic reduction drizzled over the top makes it look fancy and adds sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking.
– Clean the portobello mushrooms. Remove the stems and gills gently. Use a damp cloth to wipe them clean. This keeps the flavor fresh.
Cooking the Filling
– In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
– Once hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until golden, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it.
– Add 2 cups of finely chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir until the spinach wilts and turns bright green. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit.
Stuffing and Baking
– In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of creamy ricotta cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and ½ cup of seasoned breadcrumbs.
– Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
– Gently fold in the cooled spinach mixture until everything is well mixed.
– Take each portobello mushroom cap. Fill it with the cheese and spinach mixture. Press down gently to pack the filling.
– Place the stuffed mushrooms on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps with cleanup and even baking.
– Bake the mushrooms for 20-25 minutes. They should be tender and golden on top.
– After baking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure your mushrooms are tender, start with large portobello mushrooms. Clean them well, removing the stems and gills. This helps them cook evenly. Bake them for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until soft. Keep an eye on them during baking to avoid overcooking.
To avoid burnt garlic, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute. Stir it often and watch closely. If the garlic turns dark, it can taste bitter.
Storing Leftovers
For proper storage, let the mushrooms cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each stuffed mushroom in plastic wrap. Then, store them in a freezer bag. They can last for about a month.
To reheat, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
Presentation Tips
For serving, arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a rustic platter. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a fancy touch. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
For garnishing, use freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color. This not only looks great but also adds a fresh taste. You can also serve them with toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will provide a brighter flavor and better texture than frozen spinach. Make sure to rinse and chop it finely for even distribution in the filling.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as feta or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess. Each cheese will bring a unique taste to your stuffed mushrooms.
- Don’t Overcook Mushrooms: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent the mushrooms from becoming too soft. You want them tender but still holding their shape and texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: Adding freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a layer of freshness that complements the rich cheese filling beautifully.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out ricotta cheese for other soft cheeses. Cream cheese works well for a richer taste. Cottage cheese is another option, giving a lighter texture. For those who need gluten-free choices, use crushed nuts or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They add a nice crunch and keep the dish tasty.
Flavor Enhancements
To spice up the filling, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This gives the mushrooms a nice kick. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or chives for more flavor. Feel free to add other veggies, too. Chopped bell peppers or artichokes can make the filling even more interesting.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed mushrooms shine as a party appetizer. Serve them hot on a platter for everyone to enjoy. They also pair nicely with a simple salad or garlic bread for a meal. If you want to make them the main dish, serve with pasta or rice. This adds heartiness and keeps the meal balanced.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Each serving of spinach Parmesan stuffed mushrooms has about 250 calories. This number can vary based on the size of the mushrooms and the amount of filling you use. If you enjoy these as a main dish, you may want to eat more than one.
Macronutrient Content
– Proteins: Each serving offers around 10 grams of protein. The ricotta and Parmesan cheese provide a good amount of protein.
– Fats: You will find about 15 grams of fat per serving. Most of this comes from the cheeses and olive oil.
– Carbohydrates: Each serving has around 20 grams of carbs. The seasoned breadcrumbs contribute to this total.
Dietary Considerations
These stuffed mushrooms are vegetarian, making them a great choice for plant lovers. To make them gluten-free, swap the seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. You can find many types of gluten-free breadcrumbs at your local store. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish!
FAQs
How do I clean portobello mushrooms?
To clean portobello mushrooms, follow these steps:
– Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe the caps.
– Avoid soaking them in water, as they can absorb it.
– Remove the stems by twisting them off gently.
– Use a small spoon to scoop out the dark gills inside.
Cleaning mushrooms properly keeps them firm and flavorful. Always handle them with care.
Can I make these stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed mushrooms in advance. Here’s how:
– Stuff the mushrooms and place them on a baking sheet.
– Cover them with plastic wrap and store in the fridge.
– You can keep them for up to 24 hours before baking.
When ready, just bake them as usual. This makes meal prep easier!
What can I serve with Spinach Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms?
These stuffed mushrooms pair well with many dishes:
– Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
– Pair with garlic bread for a comforting side.
– Enjoy alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty option.
Feel free to get creative with your pairings!
This blog post covered how to make Spinach Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms. We discussed the main ingredients, seasonings, and optional toppings. You learned the step-by-step instructions on prep, cooking, and baking. We also shared tips for cooking, storing leftovers, and presenting the dish. Finally, we explored variations and provided nutritional information.
By using fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can impress anyone with this dish. Enjoy your cooking and feel free to experiment with flavors and topping
