Emily Johnson
Longhorn cheese mushrooms are a delectable appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the rich, smoky taste of Longhorn cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion. To make this savory treat, you'll start by selecting fresh, plump button or cremini mushrooms, carefully removing their stems to create a cavity for the filling. The next step involves preparing a creamy mixture of Longhorn cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic, and herbs like parsley or chives, which is then generously stuffed into each mushroom cap. After arranging the filled mushrooms on a baking sheet, they are baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mushrooms are tender. This simple yet flavorful recipe is ideal for parties, game nights, or as a side dish, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will leave your guests craving more.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Longhorn Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35-40 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Main Ingredients | Button mushrooms, Longhorn cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, butter, parsley |
| Cooking Method | Baking |
| Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Dietary Considerations | Vegetarian (if using vegetarian breadcrumbs and butter alternative) |
| Key Flavor Profile | Savory, cheesy, garlicky |
| Optional Additions | Bacon bits, green onions, red pepper flakes |
| Storage | Best served fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days |
| Reheating Instructions | Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes |
| Popular Serving Suggestion | Appetizer, side dish, or party snack |
| Nutritional Highlight | High in protein and calcium due to cheese |
| Allergen Information | Contains dairy (cheese, butter) |
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What You'll Learn
- Ingredients Needed: Gather mushrooms, Longhorn cheese, butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper
- Prep Mushrooms: Clean, remove stems, and hollow caps for stuffing
- Make Filling: Mix grated Longhorn cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs
- Stuff & Bake: Fill mushroom caps, top with butter, bake until golden
- Serve Tips: Pair with salad, crusty bread, or as a side dish
Ingredients Needed: Gather mushrooms, Longhorn cheese, butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper
To begin crafting your Longhorn cheese mushrooms, the first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Start with fresh mushrooms, preferably button or cremini, as their firm texture holds up well during cooking. Ensure they are cleaned and stems are trimmed. Next, you’ll need Longhorn cheese, a key ingredient that adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the dish. Grate the cheese finely to ensure it melts evenly over the mushrooms. Butter is essential for creating a rich base, so have a few tablespoons ready to sauté the mushrooms and garlic. Speaking of garlic, mince 2-3 cloves to infuse the dish with aromatic depth. Breadcrumbs are another crucial component, providing a crispy topping when mixed with the grated cheese. Fresh parsley, finely chopped, will add a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish. Finally, don’t forget salt and pepper to season the mushrooms to your taste. Having all these ingredients prepped and within reach will streamline the cooking process.
When selecting mushrooms, opt for ones that are evenly sized to ensure consistent cooking. If they are too large, consider cutting them in half. The Longhorn cheese should be cold when grated, as this makes it easier to handle and prevents clumping. If you can’t find Longhorn cheese, a sharp cheddar can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. Butter should be at room temperature for even melting, and if you prefer a lighter version, olive oil can be used in its place. The garlic should be minced finely to distribute its flavor evenly without overpowering the dish. Fresh breadcrumbs are ideal for the topping, but dried breadcrumbs can work in a pinch—just be mindful they may burn more easily. Fresh parsley is highly recommended over dried, as it retains its vibrant flavor and texture when added at the end.
Salt and pepper are simple yet vital ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the mushrooms and cheese. Season the mushrooms lightly during the initial sauté to draw out their moisture and concentrate their earthy taste. The breadcrumbs and Longhorn cheese mixture for the topping can also benefit from a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the richness. Keep in mind that Longhorn cheese is already quite salty, so adjust your seasoning accordingly to avoid overdoing it. Having these ingredients measured and prepared beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process and allows you to focus on technique rather than scrambling for supplies.
As you gather your ingredients, consider the quantities based on the number of servings you plan to make. For a standard appetizer or side dish, 1 pound of mushrooms should serve 4 people. You’ll need about 1 cup of grated Longhorn cheese for the topping, along with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. 2-3 tablespoons of butter will suffice for sautéing, and 2-3 cloves of garlic will provide ample flavor. A handful of fresh parsley, roughly 2 tablespoons chopped, will garnish the dish beautifully. Salt and pepper should be added to taste, but start with 1/2 teaspoon of each and adjust as needed. This careful preparation ensures that your Longhorn cheese mushrooms turn out flavorful, crispy, and perfectly seasoned.
Lastly, organizing your ingredients in the order they’ll be used can save time and reduce stress during cooking. Start with the mushrooms, butter, and garlic for the initial sauté, followed by the Longhorn cheese and breadcrumbs for the topping. Keep the parsley, salt, and pepper nearby for final seasoning and garnish. By gathering and prepping these ingredients thoughtfully, you set the stage for a delicious dish that highlights the unique combination of earthy mushrooms and sharp, melted Longhorn cheese. With everything in place, you’re ready to move on to the next steps of cooking and assembling your Longhorn cheese mushrooms.
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Prep Mushrooms: Clean, remove stems, and hollow caps for stuffing
To begin preparing your mushrooms for the Longhorn cheese stuffing, start by selecting fresh, firm button mushrooms of medium to large size. These will serve as the base for your dish, so ensure they are free from any visible bruises or blemishes. Rinse the mushrooms gently under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris from the surface. Avoid soaking them, as mushrooms are porous and can absorb excess water, which may affect their texture during cooking.
After cleaning, pat the mushrooms dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Moisture on the surface can interfere with the stuffing process and cause the filling to become soggy. Once dry, carefully twist off the stems from the caps. This can be done by holding the cap in one hand and gently but firmly twisting the stem until it separates. If the stems are stubborn, use a small paring knife to carefully cut them away from the caps.
With the stems removed, it’s time to hollow out the mushroom caps to create space for the Longhorn cheese stuffing. Use a small spoon, such as a teaspoon, to carefully scoop out the inner gills and any remaining stem parts from the caps. Be gentle to avoid breaking or tearing the delicate mushroom caps. The goal is to create a shallow cavity that will hold the cheese mixture without spilling over.
As you hollow out the caps, take care to maintain the structural integrity of the mushrooms. Leave a thin layer of the mushroom’s interior intact to provide support for the stuffing. Discard the removed gills and stems, or save them for another use, such as adding to soups or sauces for extra flavor. Properly hollowing the caps ensures that the mushrooms can be generously filled with the melted Longhorn cheese mixture.
Once all the mushroom caps are cleaned, stemmed, and hollowed, arrange them on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish with the cavity side up. They are now ready to be filled with the Longhorn cheese mixture and baked to perfection. This preparatory step is crucial for creating a delicious, visually appealing appetizer that highlights the creamy, savory flavors of the stuffed mushrooms.
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Make Filling: Mix grated Longhorn cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs
To begin crafting the filling for your Longhorn cheese mushrooms, start by gathering your ingredients: grated Longhorn cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and a selection of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or oregano. The key to a flavorful filling lies in the balance of these components. Measure out approximately 1 cup of grated Longhorn cheese, ensuring it’s finely grated for even distribution. Add ½ cup of breadcrumbs to the mix; these will help bind the filling and provide a subtle crunch. Incorporate 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, adjusting the amount based on your preference for garlic intensity. Finally, chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs finely to release their aromatic oils and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Once your ingredients are prepared, combine them in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Begin by adding the grated Longhorn cheese, followed by the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the cheese. The breadcrumbs not only add texture but also help absorb any excess moisture from the mushrooms, keeping the filling intact during baking. Next, sprinkle the minced garlic over the cheese and breadcrumbs, using a spatula or spoon to gently fold everything together. Garlic is a powerhouse ingredient here, infusing the filling with its distinctive pungent and savory notes. Be mindful not to overmix, as you want to maintain a slightly chunky texture that will hold well inside the mushroom caps.
Now, introduce the chopped fresh herbs to the mixture. Fresh herbs are preferred over dried for their vibrant flavor and color, but if fresh herbs are unavailable, use dried herbs sparingly, as their flavor is more concentrated. Toss the herbs into the bowl and gently combine them with the other ingredients until everything is uniformly incorporated. The herbs will add a refreshing, earthy dimension to the filling, complementing the richness of the Longhorn cheese. Taste a small pinch of the mixture to ensure the flavors are balanced, adjusting the seasoning if necessary with a pinch of salt or pepper.
As you mix, pay attention to the consistency of the filling. It should be moist enough to hold together but not so wet that it becomes soggy. If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of olive oil or melted butter to help bind it. Conversely, if it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the desired texture. The goal is to create a cohesive filling that will generously stuff the mushroom caps without falling apart during cooking. This step is crucial for ensuring the mushrooms turn out appetizing and easy to serve.
Finally, set the filling aside while you prepare the mushroom caps, allowing the flavors to meld together. This brief resting period enhances the overall taste, as the garlic and herbs have time to infuse the cheese and breadcrumbs. Once the mushroom caps are ready, you’ll be all set to generously spoon the filling into each one, creating a delicious appetizer or side dish that showcases the unique combination of Longhorn cheese, garlic, and herbs. This filling is not only simple to make but also highly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different herbs or add-ins to suit your taste preferences.
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Stuff & Bake: Fill mushroom caps, top with butter, bake until golden
To create a delicious Stuff & Bake Longhorn Cheese Mushrooms dish, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Select large, firm portobello or button mushrooms, gently removing the stems to create a hollow cap. Finely chop the mushroom stems and set them aside, as they can be incorporated into the stuffing mixture for added flavor. The key to this method is the stuffing, which stars Longhorn cheese as the main ingredient. Grate or crumble the Longhorn cheese and mix it with breadcrumbs, chopped mushroom stems, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Next, generously fill each mushroom cap with the Longhorn cheese stuffing, pressing it down slightly to pack it in. The goal is to create a mound of stuffing that will melt and meld with the mushroom during baking. For an extra layer of richness, top each stuffed mushroom with a small pat of butter. This not only adds flavor but also helps the breadcrumbs and cheese brown beautifully in the oven. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased foil sheet to prevent sticking.
Arrange the mushrooms so they have a little space between them to allow even cooking. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden brown and bubbling. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t burn. The butter should melt and combine with the breadcrumbs, creating a crispy, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy Longhorn cheese and juicy mushroom base.
Once baked, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring each bite is cohesive and delicious. Stuff & Bake Longhorn Cheese Mushrooms are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal when paired with a fresh salad. Their savory, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
For an optional twist, drizzle the baked mushrooms with a balsamic glaze or sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs just before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the overall presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, Stuff & Bake Longhorn Cheese Mushrooms are a straightforward yet impressive dish that highlights the versatility of mushrooms and the rich, nutty flavor of Longhorn cheese. Enjoy them warm, straight from the oven, for the best experience.
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Serve Tips: Pair with salad, crusty bread, or as a side dish
When serving Longhorn cheese mushrooms, pairing them with a fresh, crisp salad can elevate the dish by balancing the richness of the melted cheese and earthy mushrooms. Opt for a simple green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, dressed lightly with a vinaigrette or lemon juice and olive oil. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the creaminess of the cheese, creating a harmonious contrast. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or radishes for extra crunch and color. This combination not only complements the flavors but also adds a refreshing element to the meal, making it perfect for a light lunch or as a starter.
Crusty bread is another excellent companion to Longhorn cheese mushrooms, serving both as a utensil and a complementary flavor. Choose a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough with a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Toast or warm the bread slightly to enhance its texture, then use it to scoop up the cheesy mushrooms or mop up any melted cheese left on the plate. The bread’s chewiness and slight tang pair beautifully with the savory, umami-rich mushrooms. For an extra touch, rub a garlic clove over the bread before serving or drizzle it with a bit of olive oil for added depth.
Serving Longhorn cheese mushrooms as a side dish is a versatile option that works well with a variety of main courses. They pair exceptionally well with grilled or roasted meats like steak, chicken, or pork, as the mushrooms’ earthy flavor complements the richness of the protein. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. The cheese-stuffed mushrooms add a hearty, indulgent element to the meal, making it feel more substantial and satisfying. Consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re hosting a casual gathering or appetizer spread, Longhorn cheese mushrooms can be served as part of a larger platter. Arrange them alongside other bite-sized options like stuffed peppers, bruschetta, or charcuterie items. This allows guests to mix and match flavors and textures, creating their own combinations. For a cohesive presentation, include a few dips or sauces, such as a garlic aioli or marinara, that complement both the mushrooms and other dishes. This approach makes the mushrooms a crowd-pleasing addition to any party or event.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of presentation when serving Longhorn cheese mushrooms. Place them on a rustic wooden board or a sleek ceramic dish to enhance their visual appeal. Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of truffle oil for an upscale touch. If serving as part of a larger meal, ensure the mushrooms are warm and the cheese is gooey for maximum enjoyment. Whether paired with salad, crusty bread, or served as a side, these mushrooms are sure to impress with their bold flavors and comforting texture.
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Frequently asked questions
You'll need fresh mushrooms, Longhorn cheese (or a similar melting cheese), butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Clean the mushrooms, remove the stems, and hollow out the caps slightly to create space for the cheese filling.
Place the stuffed mushrooms in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Yes, you can substitute Longhorn cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any other melting cheese for a similar flavor and texture.
