Laura Smith
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer. They are usually made with small or medium-sized mushrooms, such as button or cremini mushrooms, which are stuffed with a variety of fillings and baked. When serving stuffed mushrooms, it is recommended to allow for 3-4 mushrooms per person as an appetizer. This equates to approximately 20 large (2-inch diameter) mushrooms or 40 small (1-inch diameter) mushrooms for a group of 6 people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of servings | 6 |
| Number of mushrooms per person | 3-4 |
| Calories | 193kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 384mg |
| Potassium | 214mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 535IU |
| Vitamin C | 2.1mg |
| Calcium | 95mg |
| Iron | 1.3mg |
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What You'll Learn
Appetizer/starter portions
Stuffed mushrooms are a great appetizer option for any event. They are easy to make, tasty, and can be made in large batches. The number of stuffed mushrooms served per person depends on the size of the mushrooms and the portion you intend to serve.
For smaller mushrooms, serving 3-4 per person is generally a good rule of thumb. This allows guests to enjoy a few bites without feeling too full for the main course. Smaller mushrooms are also easier to eat as they can be popped into the mouth whole. This is a good option if you are serving multiple appetizers or if your guests will be mingling and eating at the same time.
For larger mushrooms, 2 per person is usually sufficient. These larger mushrooms can be quite filling, especially if they are packed with a rich, creamy filling. They also take longer to eat, so your guests will need more time to enjoy them.
When choosing the size of the mushrooms, consider the type of event you are hosting. Smaller mushrooms are ideal for casual gatherings or cocktail parties where guests will be standing and eating. They are also a good option for a light lunch or as part of a buffet. Larger mushrooms are better suited for more formal dinners or as a starter before a main course.
Additionally, consider the other dishes you will be serving. If you are serving multiple appetizers, a smaller portion of stuffed mushrooms may be more appropriate. If the stuffed mushrooms are the only appetizer, you may want to increase the number served per person.
In terms of preparation, it is generally best to bake the mushrooms before your event and then reheat them just before serving. This will ensure they are cooked through and also reduce the risk of sogginess.
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile and delicious appetizer option that can be easily adapted to suit your event. Whether you choose smaller or larger mushrooms, your guests are sure to enjoy this tasty treat.
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Baking times
The baking time for stuffed mushrooms depends on the size of the mushrooms and the temperature of the oven.
For small to medium-sized mushrooms, the baking time is generally between 15 and 25 minutes. For example, a recipe for small white or brown mushrooms stuffed with sausage and spinach suggests baking for 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Another recipe for baby bella mushrooms with herby breadcrumbs and cheese suggests baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
For larger mushrooms, such as portobello mushrooms, the baking time may be longer. One recipe for stuffed portobello mushrooms with crabmeat suggests baking at 300°F (149°C) for 20-25 minutes.
It's important to note that the baking time may vary depending on the desired level of doneness. Some recipes suggest baking until the mushrooms are tender, while others recommend baking until the filling is golden brown and the mushrooms are softened.
Additionally, the baking time may be affected by the moisture content of the mushrooms and the filling. To prevent soggy mushrooms, it's crucial to clean and dry the mushrooms thoroughly before stuffing and baking them. Some recipes recommend chilling the filling before stuffing the mushrooms to avoid sogginess.
When making stuffed mushrooms in advance, it's worth noting that chilled mushrooms may require a few extra minutes of baking time to heat through and achieve the desired level of doneness.
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Filling quantities
The number of stuffed mushrooms you need depends on the size of the mushrooms and the appetite of your guests. A good rule of thumb is to plan for 3-4 mushrooms per person as an appetizer. If you're serving a main course as well, you may want to reduce this amount to 2-3 mushrooms per person.
If you're using small or medium-sized mushrooms, such as button or cremini mushrooms, you'll need about 12-16 mushrooms to serve four people as an appetizer. For a main course, you may want to increase this amount to 16-20 mushrooms.
For larger mushroom caps (2 inches or more in diameter), you'll yield about 20 stuffed mushrooms. These larger mushrooms are more suitable for a main course and will likely be too filling for appetizers.
When making the filling for your stuffed mushrooms, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to ensure you have enough filling to generously stuff each mushroom cap. A scantily stuffed mushroom is a sad sight! As a guide, use approximately 1 tablespoon of filling per mushroom cap.
The type of filling you choose will also impact the quantity you need. Here are some common filling options and the approximate quantities required to serve four people as an appetizer:
- Sausage and spinach filling: Use 1 pound of sausage, 10 ounces of frozen spinach, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cream cheese and garlic filling: Use 8 ounces of cream cheese, minced garlic to taste, Parmesan cheese, and cayenne pepper.
- Breadcrumb and cheese filling: Use 20 large mushrooms, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, chopped chives, 10 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese.
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Mushroom types
When it comes to choosing the right mushroom types for stuffing, there are several options to consider, each offering a unique flavour and texture. Here are some popular mushroom varieties commonly used for stuffing:
Cremini Mushrooms
Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bella or mini portobello mushrooms, are a popular choice for stuffing due to their size and flavour. They are larger than button mushrooms, providing more space for filling. Cremini mushrooms have a rich, earthy flavour and a firm texture that holds up well during cooking. Their brown colour adds a visually appealing touch to the dish.
Portobello Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are the mature version of cremini mushrooms and are significantly larger in size. They offer a generous cavity perfect for stuffing, making them ideal for heartier fillings. Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture and a robust flavour that can elevate any stuffed mushroom recipe.
White Button Mushrooms
White button mushrooms are a versatile and readily available option for stuffing. While smaller in size, they provide a delicate flavour and a tender texture. White button mushrooms are a great choice if you're looking for a more subtle mushroom taste, allowing the stuffing flavours to shine through.
Other Varieties
While cremini, portobello, and white button mushrooms are the most commonly used varieties, you can also experiment with other types. Some options include shiitake mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, or even wild mushrooms like chanterelles or porcini, depending on availability and your desired flavour profile.
Remember, when selecting mushrooms for stuffing, consider the size of the caps, as you want to ensure there is enough space for a generous amount of filling. Additionally, the flavour and texture of the mushroom should complement the ingredients in your stuffing.
Now that you have an idea about the types of mushrooms, you can decide on the quantity per person. As an appetizer, plan on serving 2-3 stuffed mushrooms per person, and for a main course, 4-5 mushrooms per person should be sufficient.
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Storing leftovers
When storing leftover stuffed mushrooms, it is important to note that they are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to four days, although some sources suggest three days to ensure they don't dry out.
Stuffed mushrooms can be frozen, but only before they are baked. They do not hold up well in the freezer once cooked. To freeze uncooked stuffed mushrooms, package them in an airtight container and they will last for up to three months.
To reheat leftover stuffed mushrooms, you can use a microwave or an oven. When using a microwave, place the mushrooms on a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel to help keep them hydrated. Heat in 30-second intervals until they are warm enough. When using an oven, preheat it to 350°F and place an oven-safe dish with water inside to add steam to the warming process. Do not reheat above 325°F, and check the mushrooms every 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through.
Some people suggest that uncooked stuffed mushrooms can be stored in a brown paper bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, this method may not keep the mushrooms as fresh, and they may become slightly dried out or slimy.
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Frequently asked questions
Plan for 3-4 small mushrooms per person or 1-2 large mushrooms per person as an appetizer.
Small mushrooms should be 1-inch in diameter and large mushrooms should be 2-inches in diameter.
Cremini mushrooms, also called "brown mushrooms", are a good choice as they have more flavour than white mushrooms. Baby Portobello mushrooms are a type of cremini mushroom and are the most flavourful.
