Name: Beef-Stuffed Mushrooms
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 fresh mushrooms.; ½ pound ground beef.; 1 tablespoon minced onion.; 1 clove garlic, minced.; 1 tablespoon butter.; ¼ cup bread crumbs.; Salt and pepper to taste.; ¼ cup heavy cream.; ¼ cup butter, melted.; 1 teaspoon chili powder.

Beef-Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering. The combination of juicy mushrooms and a savory beef filling, seasoned with garlic, onions, and a hint of chili powder, makes for a hearty bite that’s both flavorful and satisfying. These stuffed mushrooms are easy to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute party snacks or family dinners. Whether you're serving them at a holiday feast or a casual get-together, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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.