Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any gathering or occasion. With a rich cream cheese filling accented by crab and spinach, these appetizers are sure to impress your guests. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also stand out for being breadcrumb-free, making them a unique treat. Serve them at parties, family gatherings, or even as a cozy night in snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The entire dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of crab meat, cream cheese, and seasonings creates a deliciously rich flavor that will please any palate.
• Versatile Appetizer: Great for parties or casual dinners, these stuffed mushrooms can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• No Breadcrumbs Needed: This recipe stands out by skipping breadcrumbs while still delivering a satisfying texture.
• Healthy Spinach Addition: Fresh spinach not only adds nutrition but also enhances the flavor profile of the stuffing.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and spinach before adding them to the stuffing mixture.
• Mixing Bowl: Necessary for combining the creamy filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Electric Mixer: Ensures the cream cheese is perfectly smooth and easy to blend with other ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: Provides an even cooking surface for all mushroom caps during baking.

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Ingredients

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are filled with an easy cream cheese, crab and spinach filling! PS. there are NO breadcrumbs in this recipe!

For the Filling

• 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese + 6 teaspoons
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 oz, ready to eat crab meat
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 3 handfuls of fresh spinach
• 5 tablespoons FIND NO. 48 HemisFares™ Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the Mushrooms

• 12 baby portobello mushroom caps

How to Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Pre-heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you finish preparing the stuffed mushrooms.

Step 2: Cook Turkey Bacon

In a medium skillet:
1. Cook the turkey bacon on medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

1. Pour out excess grease from the skillet and wipe it clean with a paper towel.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat.
3. Once hot, add minced garlic and stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add fresh spinach; cook and stir for about 2 minutes or until wilted.

Step 4: Prepare Crab Mixture

1. Lay crab meat on a plate; check for shells and remove them if necessary.
2. Add crab meat to the skillet with sautéed garlic and spinach.
3. Stir in another tablespoon of olive oil along with onion powder, seasoning salt, and Old Bay Seasoning.
4. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Dice the cooked turkey bacon and mix it into the spinach mixture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend cream cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in the crab mixture until well combined followed by Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Prepare Mushrooms for Stuffing

1. Wipe each mushroom cap with a clean paper towel to remove dirt.
2. If stems are present in mushrooms, remove them (you can also dice and sauté them if desired).

Step 7: Fill Mushroom Caps

1. Add about 1 or 1.5 tablespoons of crab filling into each mushroom cap.
2. Top each stuffed mushroom with about 1/2 teaspoon of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Bake and Serve

1. Line a baking sheet with foil; brush with olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons).
2. Place stuffed mushrooms on the sheet; bake for approximately 15 minutes.
3. Transfer mushrooms onto a paper towel-lined plate; let rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Crab Stuffed Mushrooms as a delicious appetizer that everyone will love!

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms make for a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. Their rich flavors and appealing presentation will impress your guests at any gathering.

As a Standalone Appetizer

• Perfect for parties, these mushrooms are easy to pick up and enjoy without utensils.

Paired with Dipping Sauces

• Serve with a side of tangy marinara or zesty lemon aioli to enhance the flavor.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include them on a platter with cheeses, olives, and crackers for an elegant touch.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light garden salad to balance the richness of the stuffed mushrooms.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• These mushrooms are great additions to buffet-style meals, making them ideal for celebrations.

How to Perfect Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Getting your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms just right is key to impressing your guests. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh crab meat and spinach will elevate the flavor of your stuffed mushrooms significantly.
• Don’t Overcook: Bake just until the mushrooms are tender; overcooking can lead to soggy results.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.
• Keep Filling Consistent: Make sure all mushroom caps have an even amount of filling for uniform cooking and presentation.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the stuffed mushrooms right after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Complement your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms with these delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread makes a perfect pairing with these flavorful mushrooms.
2. Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your table.
4. Quinoa Salad: This nutty salad adds texture and completes your meal without overpowering the main dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the stuffed mushrooms beautifully.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside your flavorful appetizer.
7. Cucumber Raita: This cool yogurt-based dip pairs well with spicy flavors often found in crab dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Mushroom Preparation: Not cleaning or removing the stems may lead to a gritty filling. Always wipe mushrooms with a paper towel and remove stems if necessary.

• Overcooking the Filling: Cooking the crab mixture for too long can dry it out. Stir and cook for only 2-3 minutes after adding your seasonings.

• Skipping Seasoning: A bland filling will make your mushrooms less flavorful. Ensure you use Old Bay seasoning and other spices for a robust taste.

• Not Letting Them Rest: Serving immediately after baking can lead to hot filling spills. Let your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms rest for about 10 minutes before serving for better structure.

• Underestimating Baking Time: If you don’t bake them long enough, the mushrooms won’t soften properly. Bake at 350°F for a full 15 minutes for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crab Stuffed Mushrooms in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Freeze unbaked stuffed mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid and warm slowly until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crab Stuffed Mushrooms:

Can I make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and stuff the mushrooms ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for crab meat?

You can use shrimp or even imitation crab meat as alternatives if you want different flavors in your stuffed mushrooms.

How do I prevent my mushrooms from becoming soggy?

Make sure to clean your mushrooms properly without soaking them in water, and avoid overfilling them with the mixture.

What is the best way to serve Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

These appetizers are perfect served warm at parties or gatherings! Pair them with dipping sauces like aioli or ranch dressing.

Final Thoughts

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or cheeses based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!