Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any gathering or as a cozy appetizer at home. The creamy filling, combined with the savory taste of crab and fresh spinach, makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and don’t require breadcrumbs, ensuring a light yet satisfying bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging yourself, these stuffed mushrooms will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of crab, cream cheese, and seasonings creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer at parties or enjoy them as a delightful snack during movie nights.
• No Breadcrumbs Required: Enjoy a gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: These stuffed mushrooms look gourmet but are simple enough to whip up at home.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms effortlessly, gather your essential tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium skillet
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium skillet: Ideal for cooking the filling evenly while ensuring flavors meld perfectly.
• Baking sheet: Provides even baking space for mushrooms, allowing them to cook uniformly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a creamy consistency with minimal effort.

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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

• Turkey Turkey Bacon: 2 strips
• Fresh parsley: 1 teaspoon finely minced
• Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup shredded + 6 teaspoons for topping
• Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
• Old Bay Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon
• Seasoning salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Crab meat: 8 oz ready to eat
• Garlic: 2 cloves pressed or minced
• Fresh spinach: 3 handfuls

For the Mushrooms

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 5 tablespoons FIND NO. 48 HemisFares™ Unfiltered
• Baby portobello mushroom caps: 12

How to Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the mushrooms bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a medium skillet:
1. Cook the Turkey Turkey Bacon on medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Pour out grease and wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In the same skillet:
1. Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and stir for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach; cook for another 2 minutes or until wilted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Lay crab meat out on a plate to scan for shells; remove any shells found.
2. Add crab meat to the skillet along with another tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season with onion powder, seasoning salt, and Old Bay Seasoning; stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Mix the Filling

1. Dice Turkey Turkey Bacon and add it to the spinach mixture.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend cream cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in the crab mixture followed by Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 6: Prepare the Mushrooms

1. Wipe mushroom caps with a clean paper towel; if stems are present, remove them (you can sauté them separately if desired).
2. Fill each mushroom cap with about 1-1.5 tablespoons of crab filling.
3. Top each mushroom with about 1/2 teaspoon of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

1. Line a baking sheet with foil; brush it lightly with olive oil.
2. Arrange filled mushrooms on the baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes.
3. Once done, transfer mushrooms to a paper towel-lined plate and let rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crab Stuffed Mushrooms!

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, these stuffed mushrooms will impress everyone at the table.

As a Party Appetizer

• These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve them warm on a platter for guests to enjoy.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pairing with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or tangy marinara adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the filling.

On a Bed of Greens

• Presenting the mushrooms on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a refreshing crunch.

As Part of a Tasting Menu

• Incorporate Crab Stuffed Mushrooms into a multi-course meal. They make an excellent starter that sets the tone for the courses to come.

How to Perfect Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

To ensure your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh crab meat and spinach elevate the flavor profile, making your mushrooms taste even better.
• Don’t Overstuff: Fill each mushroom cap generously but avoid overstuffing, as this can lead to spills during cooking.
• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking and achieve that perfect golden color.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices like Old Bay Seasoning according to your taste for an extra kick.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the mushrooms to rest after baking. This helps meld the flavors and makes them easier to handle when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing their deliciousness while providing balance to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the flavors of the mushrooms perfectly and adds a satisfying crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce provide a refreshing contrast that pairs well with rich stuffed mushrooms.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal more vibrant and wholesome.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon is a great way to round out your meal while keeping it healthy.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balances the richness of Crab Stuffed Mushrooms.
6. Creamy Risotto: For those looking for something hearty, creamy risotto provides comfort alongside these flavorful bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Always use fresh crab meat and spinach for the best flavor. Check expiration dates on your cream cheese and other ingredients.
• Overfilling the mushrooms: It’s tempting to pack in the filling, but too much can lead to a messy dish. Stick to about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons per cap for optimal baking.
• Skipping the olive oil: Brushing olive oil on your baking sheet is crucial. It prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, so don’t skip this step!
• Not preheating the oven: Make sure your oven is at the right temperature before baking. Preheating helps achieve that perfect golden brown finish.
• Leaving shells in the crab meat: Always check your crab meat for shells before mixing it into your filling. A quick scan can save someone from an unpleasant crunch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them in the fridge if you plan to eat them within this timeframe.

Freezing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen 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 for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat with a splash of broth or water, covering until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Crab Stuffed Mushrooms.

What can I use instead of crab meat?

You can substitute crab meat with shredded chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

How do I make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include breadcrumbs. Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare Crab Stuffed Mushrooms ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

What are some variations of Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

Feel free to add different herbs or cheeses like feta or cheddar. You can also mix in chopped bell peppers for added flavor and color.

How do I know when my mushrooms are done?

Mushrooms are done when they are tender and lightly browned on top, usually after about 15 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that impresses at any gathering. Their creamy filling pairs beautifully with tender mushroom caps, making them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables!