Michael Davis
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile and easy-to-make appetizer that can be made with various fillings, such as cheese, herbs, and bread crumbs. They are a popular choice for holiday gatherings and can be made with different types of mushrooms, such as baby bella, white button, or portobello. The calorie count of a single stuffed mushroom can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the mushroom. On average, a single stuffed mushroom can range from 60 to 114 calories, with the majority of calories coming from fat and protein.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-114 |
| Carbohydrates | 9.8g (14%) |
| Fat | 7.8g (46%) |
| Protein | 2.4g (41%) |
| Filling | Cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, meat, bacon, cream cheese, garlic |
| Variations | Baby bella (cremini), white button, portobello |
| Prep | Rinse and wipe mushrooms before cooking to avoid sogginess |
| Storage | Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days, freeze unbaked for up to 3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Calories vary based on ingredients
The number of calories in a single stuffed mushroom varies depending on the ingredients used and the recipe followed. For example, a serving of Wegmans stuffed mushrooms with cheese contains 60 calories per serving. On the other hand, a Mushroom House stuffed mushroom with cheddar, tomato, and bacon stuffing contains 86 calories.
A classic recipe for stuffed mushrooms includes baby bella mushrooms, herby bread crumbs, and two types of cheese. This recipe can be modified to include additional ingredients such as bacon and water chestnuts. The type of cheese used can also be varied, with popular options including Parmesan, Gruyère, fontina, or feta.
The inclusion of certain ingredients, such as cheese or bacon, will naturally increase the calorie count of the dish. For example, a stuffed mushroom with cheese will have a higher calorie count than one without. Similarly, the choice of mushroom can also impact the calorie content. Baby bella mushrooms, white button mushrooms, and portobello mushrooms are all commonly used for stuffing, but their calorie counts may differ.
The cooking method can also affect the calorie content of stuffed mushrooms. For example, baking or frying the mushrooms in oil or butter will add calories from the fat. Additionally, the serving size should be considered when calculating the calorie content. A single stuffed mushroom may have a relatively low calorie count, but consuming multiple servings can significantly increase the total calorie intake.
It's important to note that the nutritional value of stuffed mushrooms extends beyond just calories. They can also provide valuable macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as micronutrients depending on the ingredients used. Therefore, while the calorie content may vary based on ingredients, the overall nutritional profile of stuffed mushrooms can offer a well-rounded contribution to an individual's diet.
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Carbohydrates and macronutrients
Carbohydrates are not an essential nutrient for the human body to function. However, many nutritious foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as copper, potassium, iron, and B vitamins, also contain carbohydrates. Mushrooms are one such food.
Mushrooms are a low-calorie food, with one cup of raw mushrooms (70g) containing just 15 calories. This makes them an excellent choice for people watching their weight, especially since most people do not eat a full cup at one time and will take in even fewer calories.
The amount of carbohydrates in mushrooms varies depending on the species. For example, a cup of whole white button mushrooms (96g) contains 3.1g of carbohydrates, while a single oyster mushroom has 9.52g of total carbs, with 3.6g of fiber. Portabella mushrooms contain 4.26g of total carbs, with 1.3g of fiber, and a single shiitake mushroom (19g) has 1.3g of total carbs.
Mushrooms are a good source of fiber, particularly the soluble fiber beta-glucan, and have a naturally low glycemic index. This means they are presumed to have little negative effect on blood glucose or insulin response due to their low carbohydrate content. In addition, mushrooms are high in antioxidants, which have been shown to fight oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to anti-aging and the prevention of chronic diseases.
Overall, mushrooms are a healthy food choice that can be used diversely in cooking. They add a savory flavor to recipes but are low in sodium and calories, making them a nutritious and beneficial addition to any diet.
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Portion size
It's important to note that the portion size of stuffed mushrooms can vary depending on the type of mushroom used. Baby bella mushrooms, for instance, are often used for bite-sized appetizers, while larger varieties such as portobello mushroom caps can be used for a more substantial serving. The filling can also impact the portion size, as some recipes may be denser or richer than others. For example, a recipe that includes meats such as sausage or bacon, multiple types of cheese, and breadcrumbs may be more calorific and filling than a simpler recipe.
When serving stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or side dish, it is common to offer multiple pieces per person. In this case, the total calorie count of the dish will depend on the number of mushrooms served. For instance, a serving of two to three baby bella mushrooms might be considered a standard portion for an appetizer, while a single portobello mushroom cap could be a more substantial main course serving.
Additionally, the calorie count per mushroom can be adjusted by altering the ingredients used in the filling. For a lighter option, one could reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-calorie alternative, substitute breadcrumbs with a healthier option such as quinoa or cauliflower rice, or bulk up the filling with chopped vegetables. Conversely, for a heartier dish, one could add meats such as sausage or bacon, incorporate cream cheese for a richer filling, or include additional ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits.
It's worth noting that the portion size of stuffed mushrooms can also be influenced by the dish's role in the overall meal. For instance, if served as a starter before a large steak dinner, a smaller portion of one or two mushrooms might be more appropriate. On the other hand, if the stuffed mushrooms are the main event, a larger portion of three to four mushrooms, or even a single large portobello mushroom cap, could be a satisfying main course.
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Recipe and preparation
The calorie count of a single stuffed mushroom depends on its size and the ingredients used to make it. On average, four stuffed mushrooms contain 114 calories.
Stuffed mushrooms are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. They are a perfect appetizer for any occasion and can be served with a variety of dishes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare them:
Ingredients:
- Mushrooms (white button or cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bella mushrooms)
- Butter or olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Bread crumbs
- Cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, fontina, feta, pecorino romano, or any other hard cheese)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil)
- Cream cheese
- Pecans (optional, for extra texture and flavor)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Clean the mushrooms by rinsing them quickly under cold water and then drying them with a paper towel. Removing any dirt from the mushrooms is important.
- Remove the stems from the mushrooms. Finely chop the stems and set them aside, as they will be used in the filling.
- Grease a baking sheet with butter, olive oil, or cooking spray.
- Arrange the mushroom caps on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt some butter or heat olive oil.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until most of the moisture is evaporated.
- Add garlic (and onion, if desired) to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring until fragrant.
- Mix bread crumbs into the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes or until slightly toasted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, combine grated cheese, cream cheese, and chopped fresh herbs. You can also add pecans for extra texture and flavor.
- Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps, stuffing them generously.
- Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are piping hot and liquid starts to form under each cap. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the mushrooms and your oven's temperature.
- Serve the stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or side dish.
Storage and Reheating:
Stuffed mushrooms can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, or bake them in the oven until heated through.
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Storage and reheating
The calorie content of a single stuffed mushroom depends on its ingredients. For example, four stuffed mushroom caps have 114 calories in total, which means that a single stuffed mushroom has around 28.5 calories.
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile dish that can be made in large batches and stored for later. If you have leftover stuffed mushrooms, it is best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for a couple of days.
If you wish to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. It is best to freeze them as soon as possible after preparation, ideally on the same day. To freeze stuffed mushrooms, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag and return it to the freezer. When stored this way, stuffed mushrooms can last for up to three months without a significant loss in quality.
When you are ready to enjoy your frozen stuffed mushrooms, there is no need to thaw them first. Simply remove as many as you need from the freezer and reheat them in the oven. Reheating in the oven is preferable to microwaving, as it helps retain the crunch of any toppings, such as breadcrumbs, and ensures the mushrooms are heated through.
If you are reheating stuffed mushrooms with breadcrumbs, it is best to add the breadcrumbs just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. You can place them back in the oven for a few minutes to heat through and then broil them to achieve a golden brown topping.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of calories in a stuffed mushroom can vary depending on the ingredients used and the recipe followed. On average, a serving of four stuffed mushrooms contains 114 calories.
To prevent soggy stuffed mushrooms, it is important to clean the mushrooms thoroughly before cooking. Rinse them quickly under cold water and then wipe them with a dry paper towel to remove any remaining dirt. Additionally, ensure that the filling is not too wet.
Stuffed mushrooms can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. It is recommended to freeze them in a flat layer first and then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for easy storage.
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile appetizer that can be paired with various dishes. Some recommended pairings include sausage pinwheels, mini phyllo feta bites with honey, and cowboy butter steak. They can also be served as a starter before a main course.
