Jalapeño and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: A Simple and Delicious Appetizer
Are you looking for a simple yet delicious appetizer to wow your guests? Look no further! Jalapeño and cheese stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized treats that pack a punch of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a game night, or just want to spice up your snack time, this recipe is sure to impress.
Here’s a straightforward guide to making jalapeño and cheese stuffed mushrooms that anyone can follow.
Ingredients:
To whip up these mouthwatering appetizers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 16) large button mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove the seeds for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious jalapeño and cheese stuffed mushrooms in no time.
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Preparation:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or a soft brush. Remove the stems by carefully twisting them out, creating a cavity for the filling. Chop the stems finely and set them aside for later use.
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Cook Mushroom Stems:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Let them cool for a bit.
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Prepare the Filling:
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In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, cooked mushroom stems, and chopped jalapeños. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
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Stuff the Mushrooms:
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With a small spoon, fill each mushroom cap with the jalapeño and cheese mixture. Make sure to pack the filling tightly.
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Add the Toppings:
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In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the stuffed mushrooms. This will add a nice, crispy top to your appetizers.
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Bake:
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Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the mushrooms. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden and crispy.
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Serve:
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Let the mushrooms cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Choosing Mushrooms: Larger mushrooms like button or cremini work best for stuffing. They’re the right size for a mouthful and have a nice cup shape for holding all that cheesy goodness.
- Handling Jalapeños: If you’re sensitive to heat or handling spicy foods, consider wearing gloves when chopping the jalapeños. Removing the seeds and membranes will also reduce the heat level.
- Customizing Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with the cheese in your filling. Mixing in some smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Making Ahead: You can prepare these mushrooms ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for parties where you want to minimize last-minute kitchen chaos.
Conclusion:
Jalapeño and cheese stuffed mushrooms are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create an appetizer that’s sure to delight your guests. Whether you’re spicing up your dinner menu or looking for the perfect party snack, these stuffed mushrooms are a go-to choice. Happy cooking!
