Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that combines creamy cheese, tender crab meat, and fresh spinach. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these mushrooms are not just flavorful but also easy to prepare. With no breadcrumbs in the recipe, they offer a unique texture that will impress your guests. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of crab, cream cheese, and spices creates a delicious filling that’s hard to resist.
• No Breadcrumbs Needed: This recipe skips the breadcrumbs, making it lighter while still satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Option: Suitable for parties, game days, or cozy family dinners as an elegant finger food.
• Healthy Spinach Addition: Fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch without compromising taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients like garlic and spinach to enhance their flavors before mixing.
• Baking Sheet: Provides an even cooking surface for the stuffed mushrooms to ensure they bake uniformly.
• Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is necessary for combining all the creamy filling ingredients effectively.
• Electric Mixer: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the cream cheese mixture quickly.

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Ingredients

These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms feature a rich filling without any breadcrumbs!

For the Filling

• 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese + 6 teaspoons
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 8 oz, ready to eat crab meat
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 3 handfuls of fresh spinach
• 5 tablespoons FIND NO. 48 HemisFares™ Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the Mushrooms

• 12 baby portobello mushroom caps

How to Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake the stuffed mushrooms.

Step 2: Cook Turkey Turkey Bacon

In a medium skillet:
1. Cook Turkey Turkey Bacon on medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Spinach and Garlic

1. Pour out grease from the skillet and wipe clean with a paper towel.
2. Add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat on medium heat.
3. Once hot, add in minced garlic and stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Prepare Crab Mixture

1. Lay crab meat out on a plate and check for shells; remove any if found.
2. Add crab meat into the skillet with spinach; stir gently.
3. Add in another tablespoon of olive oil along with onion powder, seasoning salt, and Old Bay Seasoning. Stir well for about 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

1. Dice the cooked Turkey Turkey Bacon into small pieces and add it to the spinach mixture.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to blend softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add in the crab mixture followed by Parmesan cheese; mix until fully combined.

Step 6: Prepare Mushrooms

1. Wipe each mushroom cap with a clean paper towel; remove stems if present (you can dice them up and sauté them if desired).
2. Fill each mushroom cap with about 1-1.5 tablespoons of crab filling.
3. Top each mushroom with ½ teaspoon of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

1. Line a baking sheet with foil and brush with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Place stuffed mushrooms onto the sheet and bake for around 15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

After baking:
1. Place mushrooms on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
2. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Crab Stuffed Mushrooms at your next gathering!

How to Serve Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms make a delightful appetizer for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests.

For a Cozy Dinner

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the mushrooms with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Accompany with Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavors of garlic bread complement the rich stuffing beautifully.

At a Casual Gathering

• Offer with Dipping Sauces: Provide options like marinara or a tangy aioli for extra flavor.
• Create a Platter: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a large platter with colorful veggies for an appealing presentation.

For Special Occasions

• Include in a Charcuterie Board: Add them to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers for an elevated experience.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top each mushroom with freshly chopped parsley or chives for added flair.

How to Perfect Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

To ensure your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and high-quality crab meat for the best flavor.
• Boldly Control the Moisture: Make sure to cook down the spinach properly to avoid soggy mushrooms.
• Boldly Preheat Your Oven: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve even cooking.
• Boldly Don’t Overfill: Fill each mushroom cap generously but avoid overstuffing to prevent spillage during baking.
• Boldly Allow Resting Time: Let the stuffed mushrooms rest after baking; this helps set the filling and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Pairing side dishes with your Crab Stuffed Mushrooms can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Bold Green Salad: A mix of greens drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
2. Bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offer great texture and taste contrast.
3. Bold Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs and citrus can round out the meal nicely.
4. Bold Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing balance to the rich mushroom filling.
5. Bold Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch to your plate.
6. Bold Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and crunch, perfect alongside savory mushrooms.
7. Bold Risotto: Creamy risotto can be a comforting side that pairs well with seafood flavors.
8. Bold Baked Potato Wedges: Seasoned baked potato wedges offer a hearty option that complements the richness of stuffed mushrooms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crab Stuffed Mushrooms can be fun and rewarding, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few tips to help you succeed.

• Overcooking the Mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms for too long can make them soggy. Bake them just until they’re tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the filling properly can result in bland mushrooms. Use spices like Old Bay and seasoning salt for enhanced flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted spinach or expired cream cheese will impact your dish’s taste. Always opt for fresh ingredients.
• Filling the Caps Incorrectly: Overstuffing the mushroom caps may lead to spillage while baking. Fill them generously, but not excessively.
• Not Letting Them Rest: Serving immediately after baking can cause burns. Let the mushrooms rest for about 10 minutes to cool slightly before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Freeze unbaked stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a little olive oil, cover, and heat on low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Crab Stuffed Mushrooms.

Can I use different types of cheese in Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors.

How do I know when my Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are done?

They should be golden brown on top and tender when pierced with a fork.

Can I customize the filling for my Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or herbs to give it your personal touch.

What should I serve with Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?

These mushrooms pair well with a fresh salad or as part of a larger appetizer platter.

Final Thoughts

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try at your next event; you won’t be disappointed!