Description
These stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and elegant party appetizer featuring large cremini mushrooms filled with a crispy, savory mixture of panko breadcrumbs, pecorino cheese, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and garlic. Baked to golden perfection, they are best served warm and garnished with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Filling
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (about 4 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Mushrooms and Finishing
- 20 to 24 large cremini mushrooms, stems removed
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Pinches of red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese, finely chopped fresh parsley, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Place the stemmed cremini mushrooms cavity side up on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them lightly with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle a little sea salt over each mushroom.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the breadcrumb filling evenly into each mushroom cavity, pressing slightly to pack the mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms to help the topping crisp up during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if using, and season with extra salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use large cremini mushrooms for the best stuffing capacity and flavor.
- You can substitute pecorino with Parmesan cheese if preferred.
- For a nuttier crunch, lightly toast the pine nuts before adding them to the filling.
- Prepare the mushrooms right before serving to enjoy them warm and crispy.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat; omit if serving to children or those sensitive to spice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
