Introduction
Crab-stuffed mushrooms are a mouthwatering appetizer that brings a taste of the sea to your plate. This dish pairs tender mushroom caps with a rich and savory crab mixture, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving these at a dinner party or enjoying a special snack at home, crab-stuffed mushrooms are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into this recipe to make delicious, savory crab-stuffed mushrooms.
Ingredients
16 large white mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
225g (8 oz) of lump crab meat, thoroughly checked for any shell fragments.
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Get a baking sheet ready by either covering it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with oil.
Prepare the mushrooms. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel, remove the stems, and hollow out the caps to create room for the filling.
Mix the filling. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, green onions, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the crab meat to keep the crab lumps intact.
Stuff the mushrooms. Gently stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, forming a slight mound on top.
Top and bake. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffed mushrooms, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms soften and the filling turns a light golden brown.
Garnish and serve. After baking, garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy the mushrooms while they’re still hot.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve these stuffed mushrooms warm as an appetizer. They pair well with a crisp salad or as part of a seafood platter.
Storage: Store any remaining stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Freezing: To freeze, prepare the mushrooms up to the baking step, then freeze them on a tray before transferring to a sealed container. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
Tips for Success
Choose large, firm mushrooms that can hold the filling well. White button or cremini mushrooms are ideal.
Avoid overmixing the crab meat to preserve its texture.
Add a bit of lemon juice or zest for a bright citrus flavor that complements the crab.
Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
Don’t skip the butter drizzle before baking, as it helps the mushrooms cook evenly and adds richness.
Health Benefits
High in Protein: Crab meat is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats found in seafood help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Low in Calories: Mushrooms are low in calories and provide important nutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, and antioxidants.
Supports Weight Management: With their high protein and low-calorie profile, crab-stuffed mushrooms are satisfying and can be part of a balanced diet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 190
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 380mg
Cholesterol: 45mg
Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.
Cheese Substitutes: Try goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
Add Heat: Incorporate some minced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the crab for chopped artichokes or spinach mixed with feta for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Different Seasonings: Switch out Old Bay for Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms a day in advance, store them covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I use canned crab meat?
Fresh crab meat is ideal, but canned crab can be used if needed in a pinch. Drain the crab meat thoroughly and check carefully for any shell pieces before using.
Q: What can I do to keep the mushrooms from getting soggy?
A: Pre-cooking the mushrooms for a few minutes before stuffing them helps reduce moisture. Also, avoid overfilling the caps.
Q: What if I can’t find Old Bay seasoning?
A: You can make a simple substitute by combining paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
Conclusion
Savory crab-stuffed mushrooms are a versatile, flavorful, and elegant appetizer that will surely be a hit. With a delicious blend of crab meat, cream cheese, and seasonings, each bite delivers a burst of flavor. Perfect for special occasions or casual get-togethers, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different variations, and savor the health benefits that come with this seafood treat!