Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that combines cream cheese, crab meat, and spinach into a savory filling. They are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. The absence of breadcrumbs makes them a unique choice that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With their rich flavors and elegant presentation, these stuffed mushrooms will impress any crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of crab meat, cream cheese, and spices creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• No Breadcrumbs: Unlike traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe skips the breadcrumbs for a lighter filling that shines with savory goodness.
• Versatile Appetizer: Suitable for various occasions, these mushrooms make a great finger food for parties or a sophisticated starter for dinner.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the stuffing according to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet is essential for cooking the turkey bacon and sautéing the garlic and spinach without sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients easily before stuffing the mushrooms.
• Electric Mixer: Using an electric mixer ensures that the cream cheese is whipped to a smooth consistency for easy blending with other ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with foil simplifies cleanup while providing an even baking surface.

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Ingredients

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are filled with an easy cream cheese, crab, and spinach filling! PS. there are NO breadcrumbs in this recipe!

For the Filling

• 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese + 6 teaspoons
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 oz ready-to-eat crab meat
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 3 handfuls of fresh spinach
• 5 tablespoons FIND NO. 48 HemisFares™ Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the Mushrooms

• 12 baby portobello mushroom caps

How to Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking when your stuffed mushrooms are prepared.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a medium skillet:
1. Cook Turkey Turkey Bacon on medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Pour out excess grease and wipe skillet clean with a paper towel.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet:
1. Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add minced garlic and stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach; cook and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Prepare Crab Mixture

On a plate:
1. Lay out crab meat and scan for shells; remove any shells found.
In the skillet:
1. Add crab meat to garlic-spinach mixture along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Season with onion powder, seasoning salt, and Old Bay Seasoning; stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to blend creamy softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add cooked crab mixture; stir until well combined.
3. Mix in Parmesan cheese thoroughly.

Step 6: Prepare Mushrooms

Using a clean paper towel:
1. Wipe off baby portobello mushroom caps carefully.
2. If stems remain inside mushrooms, remove them (or you can dice them up, sauté them, and add to filling).

Step 7: Stuff Mushrooms

1. Fill each mushroom cap with about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of crab filling.
2. Top each mushroom with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Bake the Mushrooms

1. Line a baking sheet with foil; brush it lightly with olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons).
2. Place stuffed mushrooms onto the sheet; bake for about 15 minutes.
3. Once baked, transfer mushrooms to a paper towel-lined plate to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

With this simple yet delicious recipe, your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

As Part of a Platter

• Serve the mushrooms on a large platter surrounded by fresh herbs for a colorful presentation. This makes them easy for guests to grab.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pair with tangy dipping sauces like lemon aioli or spicy marinara to add an extra flavor dimension.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each mushroom with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness that complements the stuffing.

On Individual Plates

• Place one or two stuffed mushrooms on individual plates, accompanied by a small salad or roasted vegetables for a more formal touch.

As an Appetizer Before a Main Course

• Serve as an elegant starter before your main dish, allowing the flavors to set the tone for the meal.

How to Perfect Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

To make your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms even more delicious, consider these tips for perfection:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh crab meat and spinach will greatly enhance the flavor of your stuffing.

• Avoid Overcooking: Bake just until the mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through to maintain moisture.

• Experiment with Cheese: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors in your stuffing.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing; feel free to add more seasoning if needed to suit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the mushrooms.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a refreshing side.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and health benefits while enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and keeps things refreshing.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies can create a hearty side that complements the mushrooms beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip cleaning mushrooms. Always wipe your mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Clean mushrooms ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Boldly overlook seasoning. Failing to properly season your filling can lead to bland mushrooms. Use spices like Old Bay and onion powder for a flavorful experience.
• Boldly overstuffing caps. Adding too much filling can cause the mushrooms to overflow during baking. Aim for 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of filling per cap for perfect results.
• Boldly neglecting rest time. Serving immediately after baking can result in hot filling that burns the mouth. Allowing the mushrooms to rest for about 10 minutes enhances enjoyment.
• Boldly ignoring ingredient freshness. Using stale or low-quality ingredients can affect dish quality. Always choose fresh crab meat and vibrant spinach for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, turning occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crab Stuffed Mushrooms.

What is the best type of mushroom for stuffing?

Baby portobello mushrooms work wonderfully due to their size and flavor, but you can also use larger caps if preferred.

Can I substitute other proteins in Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

Yes! You can replace crab with shrimp or cooked chicken for different flavors while still keeping it delicious.

How do I make vegan Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

You could use plant-based cream cheese and skip any animal-derived ingredients while using marinated artichokes or jackfruit as a crab substitute.

Are Crab Stuffed Mushrooms good for parties?

Absolutely! These appetizers are easy to make, serve well, and are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms offer a delightful balance of flavors and are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Their versatility allows for customization with various fillings or spices based on personal preference. Try out this recipe and share your variations!