Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delicious and elegant appetizer, perfect for parties, holidays, or a special dinner. Juicy mushrooms are filled with a flavorful crab mixture and baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines the sweetness of crab with creamy cheese, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

• 20-24 large white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, stems removed
• 8 oz crab meat (fresh, lump, or canned; drained if using canned)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or any seafood seasoning)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing mushrooms)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce for a bit of heat
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms

1. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Remove the stems and hollow out the mushroom caps using a spoon to make room for the stuffing.
2. Lightly brush the mushroom caps with melted butter and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Crab Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
2. Season the filling with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms

1. Using a spoon or a small scoop, fill each mushroom cap generously with the crab mixture, packing it down slightly to ensure it stays in place.
2. Optional: If you prefer extra cheesiness, sprinkle a little shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed mushroom.

Step 5: Bake the Mushrooms

1. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the mushrooms are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms warm, with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrusy touch.

Cooking Notes

• Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat gives the best flavor, but canned or imitation crab can also be used for convenience.
• Mushrooms: Choose large mushrooms so there’s plenty of room for stuffing. Cremini mushrooms have a richer flavor, while button mushrooms are milder.

Variations

1. Spicy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Cheesy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Mix in ½ cup shredded cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda) into the crab filling for an extra gooey and cheesy center.

3. Bacon-Wrapped Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Wrap each stuffed mushroom with a half slice of bacon before baking. This adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the crab stuffing.

4. Herb-Infused Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives to the filling for a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the crab.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed mushrooms and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I use imitation crab?
Yes, imitation crab can be used if you prefer a more budget-friendly option. While the flavor won’t be as rich as real crab, it will still taste delicious in this recipe.

Q: Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! You can substitute crab with shrimp, lobster, or even scallops for a different seafood twist on this classic appetizer.

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, combining the sweetness of crab with creamy, savory filling inside tender mushrooms. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Customize them with your favorite flavors and enjoy this delectable dish!