Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that easily steals the show, this Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is exactly what your entertaining game needs. Imagine tender mushroom caps loaded with a luscious blend of finely chopped shrimp, silky cream cheese, and a hint of garlic, all baked to golden perfection. The combination of creamy textures with the subtle brininess of shrimp delivers a mouthwatering bite every time. It’s an elegant yet approachable dish that never fails to bring smiles and satisfied sighs around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but carefully selected ingredients come together effortlessly to create a flavor-packed appetizer that balances creaminess, freshness, and just the right amount of tang. Each component plays a key role, from the meaty mushrooms acting as perfect vessels to the Parmesan adding a savory depth.
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned: Mushrooms are the star base, providing an earthy, chewy texture that complements the creamy filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to lightly brush the mushroom caps, this adds a subtle richness and helps with roasting.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped: The shrimp brings a tender, slightly sweet seafood flavor that matches perfectly with creamy ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic punches up the aroma and flavor without overpowering the shrimp.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: This is key for the creamy, luscious texture inside the mushrooms.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth that ensures irresistible umami notes.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or mayonnaise: Helps bind the filling and adds a mild tanginess or richness, depending on your choice.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish): Fresh parsley keeps the dish bright and adds a pop of herbal freshness.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle warmth and color contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping): A melty, golden topping option for those who love cheesy crusts.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mushrooms
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Then, clean the mushrooms and remove their stems gently, creating perfect little cups. Brush each mushroom cap with olive oil to help them roast nicely and place them cavity-side up on your baking sheet. This sets the foundation for juicy and tender mushrooms ready to cradle that creamy shrimp mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp Mixture
Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the finely chopped shrimp along with the minced garlic. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures your shrimp remains tender and flavorful without becoming rubbery. Remove the skillet from heat and let the shrimp cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients — it keeps the filling light and smooth.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and garlic with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, sour cream (or mayonnaise), chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the mixture is luxuriously creamy and evenly blended. This filling is what makes this Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe stand out — rich, dreamy, and bursting with subtle seafood flavor entwined with herbaceous, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Stuff and Top the Mushrooms
Using a spoon, generously fill each mushroom cap with the shrimp cream cheese mixture. If you’re a fan of that golden cheese crust, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each filled mushroom. This extra step adds a melty, slightly browned finish that everyone loves and makes the dish feel just a little more indulgent without stealing the spotlight from the filling.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Pop the stuffed mushrooms into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’re aiming for the mushrooms to become tender but not soggy, and the tops to turn a beautiful golden color. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure anticipation — savory, creamy, and a little garlicky — signaling that these bites are ready to wow your guests.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and a fresh herb note. Serve these delightful morsels warm for maximum enjoyment. They are best eaten right away to savor the contrast between the juicy mushrooms and luscious shrimp filling.
How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds the perfect touch of green and freshness, cutting through the richness while making the mushrooms look extra inviting. For a little extra zip, a small dash of smoked paprika on top can add color and a subtle smoky note that elevates the entire dish.
Side Dishes
These stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a lighter meal or alongside a chilled glass of white wine. If you’re serving this at a party, think about complementing it with crusty bread or a flavorful risotto to round out the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve each mushroom on a large leaf of baby spinach or arugula, which not only looks elegant but adds a peppery bite. Alternatively, line them up on a long platter with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh citrus over the mushrooms, adding brightness to every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days while maintaining most of their flavor and texture. Be sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it an easy, make-ahead appetizer for unexpected guests or busy days.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers or frozen batches, pop them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, usually about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the mushrooms soggy and the filling less creamy.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white button and cremini mushrooms work best due to their size and firmness, you can also try portobello caps for larger servings or shiitake for a more intense flavor. Just make sure they’re fresh and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Is it okay to substitute mayonnaise for sour cream?
Yes, mayonnaise can be used instead of sour cream and it will still deliver a creamy texture with a slightly different tang. Feel free to choose based on your taste preference or what you have on hand.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp filling up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Stuff the mushrooms and bake just before serving for the best results.
What if I don’t eat seafood? Can I omit the shrimp?
If you’re not a seafood fan, you could swap the shrimp with cooked chicken, finely chopped mushrooms, or even crab meat for a different yet delicious twist on the recipe. Just adjust seasoning accordingly to keep the balance of flavors.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your Parmesan cheese and any optional cheese toppings do not contain additives with gluten. Always good to be mindful if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is one of those dishes you will find yourself making again and again because it’s just that good. It perfectly balances indulgence and simplicity, making it ideal for everything from holiday gatherings to casual dinners. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how these little bites outshine even the most elaborate appetizers with ease and flavor-packed charm.
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Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer featuring large mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of sautéed shrimp, cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Baked to golden perfection, they make an elegant and flavorful bite-sized treat perfect for parties or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Mushrooms
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Filling
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms and carefully remove their stems. Lightly brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and arrange them cavity-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shrimp and minced garlic, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until the shrimp just turns pink. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the shrimp mixture to cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and garlic mixture with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, sour cream or mayonnaise, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Generously spoon the creamy shrimp filling into each mushroom cap. If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each filled mushroom for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the oven, garnish with extra chopped parsley, and serve warm as an elegant appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mushrooms and shrimp.
- You can substitute sour cream with mayonnaise depending on your preference.
- Optional mozzarella topping adds extra richness and a golden finish.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, especially Parmesan and mayonnaise, are certified gluten-free.
- These stuffed mushrooms can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
