Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme

There’s something undeniably delightful about stuffed mushrooms, especially when they are filled with a savory combination of Parmesan and fresh thyme. These mouthwatering bites are perfect as an appetizer for a dinner party, a delightful addition to a potluck, or even a simple snack to enjoy on a cozy night in. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms paired with the creamy richness of the cheese and the aromatic notes of thyme creates a symphony of taste that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into making these Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Reasons to Love Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme

Stuffed mushrooms are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time, these stuffed mushrooms come together in a snap.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Mushrooms are low in calories and packed with nutrients, making this dish a great guilt-free option.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling ingredients according to your taste preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: These bite-sized delights look elegant, perfect for impressing guests.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great option for non-meat eaters, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!

What You’ll Gather

To make these scrumptious Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme, you will need the following ingredients:

• 25 button mushrooms
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 oz butter
• 2/3 cup bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Sea salt flakes, to taste
• Pepper grinder, for seasoning

Before You Start: Equipment

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Oven: To bake the stuffed mushrooms to golden perfection.
• Skillet: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Baking dish: To hold your stuffed mushrooms while they cook.
• Mixing bowl: For combining your filling ingredients.
• Spoon: To scoop out the mushroom stems and fill them.
• Knife and chopping board: For chopping ingredients.

Build Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme Step by Step

Creating Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your mushrooms will cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms

Gently clean the button mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms and set them aside. You want the caps to be intact for stuffing.

Step 3: Chop the Fillings

Finely chop the mushroom stems, onion, and garlic. You will want to ensure these are small enough to fit nicely into the mushroom caps.

Step 4: Sauté the Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant. Stir in the chopped mushroom stems and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of pepper from the grinder. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 6: Stuff the Mushrooms

Using a spoon, fill each mushroom cap with the prepared filling, pressing down gently to ensure they are well packed.

Step 7: Arrange & Drizzle

Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over them for added flavor and moisture.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Remove the mushrooms from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor experience!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas for alternative ingredients that can elevate your Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme:

• Cheese Variations: Try using feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with basil or oregano instead of thyme.
• Nuts: Add finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes for some heat.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; give each mushroom enough space to cook evenly.
• Don’t skip the seasoning; a little salt and pepper enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t overstuff the mushrooms; they should be filled but not overflowing, or they may fall apart.
• Don’t use dried herbs if fresh are available; fresh thyme provides a vibrant flavor that dried cannot match.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), here’s how to handle them:

Allow the stuffed mushrooms to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To rewarm, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the mushrooms right before baking.

Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the stuffed mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with stuffed mushrooms?

Stuffed mushrooms pair wonderfully with a crisp salad, a charcuterie board, or a selection of dips and spreads for a well-rounded appetizer spread.

Are there gluten-free options for the bread crumbs?

Yes! You can substitute traditional bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or even ground almonds for a different texture.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed making Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme, here are some other delicious recipes to try:

• Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta
• Vegan Stuffed Peppers
• Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

See You at the Table

As you gather with friends and family around the table, these Stuffed Mushrooms w/ Parmesan & Thyme will surely steal the show. Their rich flavors and inviting aroma create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that everyone will appreciate. So, roll up your sleeves, savor the cooking process, and enjoy the delightful company that comes with sharing a meal. Happy cooking!