These Easy Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are packed with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish! The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives them a rich, indulgent taste, while fresh garlic, onions, and spinach add depth of flavor. Whether you’re serving these at a party or as a vegetarian main course, they are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be baked or grilled for added versatility!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 large Portobello mushroom caps
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt and pepper
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup breadcrumbs, divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup canned artichokes or chopped tomatoes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the Portobello mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems, chop them finely for the filling, and scrape out the gills. Brush the mushrooms with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them gill side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 10 minutes, then flip and roast for another 5 minutes.
- Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the remaining olive oil. Add the chopped onion and mushroom stems, cooking until tender. Stir in the garlic and spinach, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in Italian seasoning, ¼ cup of breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella, sautéed vegetables, and optional artichokes or tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff and Bake: Spoon the filling into the roasted mushroom caps. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, remaining breadcrumbs, and the rest of the mozzarella. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot as an appetizer or side dish.
Nutrients
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Why Portobello Mushrooms Are a Great Choice
Portobello mushrooms are one of the most popular types of mushrooms used in cooking due to their large size, rich umami flavor, and versatility. They are often used as a meat substitute because of their hearty texture, making them an excellent choice for vegetarian dishes. Additionally, Portobello mushrooms are low in calories and packed with nutrients such as fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives these stuffed mushrooms an indulgent and creamy texture. The rich, cheesy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, while the addition of fresh spinach, garlic, and onions enhances the depth of flavor. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a pleasant crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy and crispy textures.
Customization Options for the Recipe
One of the best aspects of this stuffed Portobello mushroom recipe is its adaptability. There are numerous ways to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences:
- Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon, crumbled sausage, or shredded chicken to the filling for added protein.
- Vegetable Variations: Mix in diced bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped artichokes to add more texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little heat.
Cooking Methods: Baking vs. Grilling
This recipe can be prepared using either an oven or a grill, each method providing slightly different results:
- Baking: Baking the mushrooms in the oven allows the flavors to meld together perfectly while ensuring a golden, crispy topping. The mushrooms retain their juiciness and absorb all the delicious flavors of the filling.
- Grilling: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling the stuffed mushrooms is an excellent option. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the edges of the mushrooms, adding a slightly charred and smoky taste that complements the creamy filling.
Pairing Suggestions
Stuffed Portobello mushrooms pair well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Here are some recommendations to complete your meal:
- Side Dishes: Serve the mushrooms with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light quinoa pilaf for a well-rounded meal.
- Main Course Pairings: If serving as a side dish, pair them with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
- Wine Pairing: The creamy, cheesy filling pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, these stuffed mushrooms can be easily stored and reheated:
- Refrigeration: Store the stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain their texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the mushrooms too soggy.
- Freezing: While not recommended due to the high moisture content of mushrooms, you can freeze them if necessary. Wrap each mushroom individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Benefits
Portobello mushrooms are a nutritious addition to your diet, offering a range of health benefits:
- Low in Calories: With only about 210 calories per serving, these mushrooms are a great option for those looking for a lighter meal.
- Rich in Nutrients: They are an excellent source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism and brain function.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content helps promote digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Antioxidant Properties: Mushrooms contain antioxidants like selenium and ergothioneine, which help combat oxidative stress and support immune function.
Perfect for Entertaining
If you’re hosting a dinner party or a gathering, these stuffed Portobello mushrooms make an ideal appetizer. They are elegant enough to impress guests while being easy to prepare in advance. You can assemble the mushrooms and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake, making them a stress-free option for entertaining.
Conclusion
Easy Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main course. With their rich, cheesy filling, earthy mushroom base, and crispy breadcrumb topping, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether baked or grilled, they are easy to prepare and customizable to suit various dietary preferences. Their nutritious profile and impressive presentation make them a must-try recipe for any home cook looking to elevate their meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.