I love how grilled stuffed mushrooms with cheese bring together smoky flavors and gooey goodness. There’s something special about biting into a perfectly charred mushroom filled with savory cheese that’s both simple and indulgent.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or looking for a tasty appetizer these mushrooms never disappoint. They’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser that adds a delicious touch to any meal.
Overview of Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms with Cheese
Grilled stuffed mushrooms feature plump mushroom caps filled with a savory cheese mixture. I appreciate their combination of smoky grill flavors and creamy, melted cheese. These appetizers suit various occasions, including backyard barbecues and casual dinners. Preparing them involves selecting fresh mushrooms, creating a cheese-based stuffing with herbs and spices, and grilling until the tops are golden brown. Their versatility and rich taste ensure they remain a popular choice among guests, making them a reliable addition to any menu.
Ingredients and Preparation
Selecting the Right Mushrooms
I choose large white or cremini mushrooms for their sturdy texture and ability to hold the stuffing. Ensure each mushroom is clean and free from blemishes before stuffing.
Preparing the Cheese Filling
Combining cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic, and chopped herbs creates a flavorful stuffing. I mix these ingredients until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Grilling Techniques
Preheat the grill to medium heat. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a grill basket to prevent them from falling through. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled stuffed mushrooms pair well with a variety of dishes. I serve them alongside grilled meats, salads, or as part of a vegetarian spread. Garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds a finishing touch.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms
- Mushroom Size: Use uniformly large mushrooms for even cooking.
- Stuffing Consistency: Ensure the cheese mixture is not too wet to prevent soggy mushrooms.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain a consistent medium heat to cook the mushrooms thoroughly without burning the cheese.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Variations and Customizations
I experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors. Adding ingredients such as spinach, bacon bits, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the stuffing. Adjusting herbs and spices allows for personalized tastes to suit any preference.
Ingredients
Gather fresh mushrooms and a variety of cheeses to create a flavorful stuffing.
Fresh Mushroom Selection
Choose 12 large white or cremini mushrooms with firm stems. Ensure each mushroom cap is plump and free from blemishes for optimal grilling results.
Cheese Varieties
Opt for a combination of 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. These cheeses melt beautifully, creating a rich and savory filling.
Preparation Process
I start by cleaning the mushrooms and preparing the cheese filling. Then, I stuff the mushrooms and grill them to perfection.
Cleaning and Preparing Mushrooms
- Select Mushrooms: I choose 12 large white or cremini mushrooms with firm, unblemished stems.
- Clean Caps: I gently wipe each mushroom cap with a damp paper towel to remove dirt, avoiding soaking them to prevent excess moisture.
- Remove Stems: I carefully twist and pull out the stems, then finely chop them for the stuffing mixture.
- Prepare for Stuffing: I use a spoon to lightly scrape the cavity of each cap, creating space for the cheese filling while keeping the boundaries intact.
Stuffing and Grilling
- Make Cheese Filling: I combine 8 ounces cream cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, chopped mushroom stems, minced garlic, and fresh herbs in a bowl.
- Fill Mushroom Caps: I spoon the cheese mixture evenly into each prepared mushroom cap, ensuring they’re generously stuffed.
- Preheat Grill: I heat the grill to medium temperature, around 350°F (175°C), for even cooking.
- Grill Mushrooms: I place the stuffed mushrooms on the grill with the lid closed. I cook them for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and the caps become tender.
- Serve: I remove the mushrooms from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving. They pair perfectly with grilled meats or salads.
Taste and Texture
When I prepare grilled stuffed mushrooms, they deliver a harmonious blend of flavors and contrasting textures. I notice the mushroom caps absorb the grill’s smoky notes, enhancing their rich umami flavor. Inside, the cheese mixture melds creamy cream cheese with sharp Parmesan and melty mozzarella, resulting in a luscious, gooey filling. Grilling creates a crisp exterior on the mushrooms and cheese, offering a satisfying bite. I appreciate how herbs and garlic infuse the cheese blend, adding layers of aromatic depth. Each mouthful presents a balance of tender mushroom, creamy cheese, and crunchy edges, making these appetizers irresistibly flavorful and texturally appealing.
Serving Suggestions
I pair grilled stuffed mushrooms with a variety of dishes:
- Grilled Meats: Steaks, chicken breasts, or pork chops enhance the smoky flavors.
- Fresh Salads: Caesar, mixed greens, or spinach salads add a crisp contrast.
- Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or mashed potatoes complete the meal.
They also match well with white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or red wines such as Pinot Noir. For appetizers, I offer them alongside finger foods like bruschetta, shrimp cocktails, or cheese platters.
Conclusion
Grilled stuffed mushrooms with cheese have quickly become one of my favorite go-to appetizers. There’s something special about their smoky flavor and creamy filling that always impresses my guests. Whether it’s for a casual backyard barbecue or a more formal gathering they never fail to delight.
I love how simple they are to prepare and how versatile they can be with different fillings. Next time you’re planning a meal give these a try and watch them disappear in no time. They’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection just like they are in mine.
