Beef-Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic appetizer that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with a hearty, savory beef filling. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to casual get-togethers.
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to prepare this delicious appetizer.
INGREDIENTS
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms work best. Choose medium to large-sized mushrooms that can hold a good amount of filling.
- Ground Beef: The heart of the filling. Use lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor.
- Onion: Minced onion adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the filling.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings depth and a touch of sharpness to the dish.
- Bread Crumbs: Helps bind the filling together and adds texture. You can use regular or seasoned bread crumbs.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the filling, making it extra indulgent.
- Chili Powder: A pinch of chili powder gives the mushrooms a little kick, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Butter: Used for both the filling and coating the mushroom caps, butter adds richness and helps create a golden finish when baked.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed mushrooms.
- Step 2:
- Remove the stems from the mushrooms and finely chop them. This adds texture and flavor to the beef mixture.
- Step 3:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef, minced onion, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the chopped mushroom stems, 1 tablespoon of butter, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.
- Step 5:
- Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. This will add richness to the beef filling and help bind it together.
- Step 6:
- Dip the mushroom caps in the melted butter and generously stuff them with the beef mixture. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with a little chili powder for added flavor.
- Step 8:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these Beef-Stuffed Mushrooms hot, straight from the oven, as a perfect appetizer for any party. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or alongside other finger foods.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, which will help retain their texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful Notes
- Filling Variations: You can experiment with different meats or even make a vegetarian version using lentils or chickpeas.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste. You can omit it for a milder flavor or add extra for more heat.
- Mushroom Types: Portobello mushrooms can also be used for a larger, heartier serving.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Julia recommends using seasoned bread crumbs to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- Chef Thomas suggests adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the mushrooms before baking for an extra savory touch.
- Chef Megan advises using a combination of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor profile in the stuffing.