If you’re searching for an appetizer that feels indulgent yet approachable, the Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is exactly what your table needs. These bite-sized gems blend tender mushrooms with a luscious shrimp and cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth. Each serving bursts with savory flavor and a touch of garlic and herbs, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering or cozy night in. The balance of creamy texture and fresh seafood wrapped inside earthy mushrooms elevates this dish beyond ordinary starters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this dish. Each component plays a crucial role, bringing layers of texture, taste, and just the right hint of color to your stuffed mushrooms.
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned: Fresh mushrooms are essential for a sturdy yet tender base that holds the filling perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the mushroom caps cook evenly without drying out.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped: The star protein, lending sweetness and a delicate bite to the creamy mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic depth and a mild kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides the creamy, dreamy base that binds everything together and offers that signature softness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements both the shrimp and mushrooms.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or mayonnaise: Enhances the creaminess and keeps the filling moist and luscious.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of green color.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle warmth and color, highlighting the rustic appeal of the mushrooms.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and bring out the natural flavors.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping): Melts beautifully over the stuffed mushrooms for a golden, bubbly finish.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your baking sheet. Lining with parchment paper or greasing it lightly helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. While the oven warms, clean your mushrooms thoroughly and gently remove their stems to create perfect little pockets for the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp and Garlic
Sauté the finely chopped shrimp with minced garlic in a warm skillet over medium heat until the shrimp just turns pink, usually around 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking step brings out the shrimp’s natural sweetness and infuses the mixture with savory garlic flavor. Allow this to cool slightly before mixing to avoid melting the cream cheese later.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed shrimp and garlic with softened cream cheese, Parmesan, sour cream or mayonnaise, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy. This filling is the heart of the Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe, packing flavor and luscious texture in every bite.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
Lightly brush the mushroom caps with olive oil to enhance moisture retention during baking. Then, generously spoon the creamy shrimp mixture into each cap, filling them to the brim. If you love a golden cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible melty finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed mushrooms on your baking sheet, cavity side up, and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 18 to 20 minutes or until the mushrooms become tender and the tops turn a beautiful golden color. This final step allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set while keeping everything delightfully moist.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy richness. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, fresh parsley is a perfect choice. You might also consider a light dusting of paprika or a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil to add brightness and contrast to the creamy filling. These small touches make your appetizer visually inviting and add a subtle complementary zing.
Side Dishes
These stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with fresh green salads or crisp vegetable crudités to balance the creaminess. For a more substantial offering, serve alongside garlic bread or a light pasta with lemon and herbs. The key is to keep the sides simple so your star dish remains the center of attention.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange these mushrooms on a decorative platter garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges. Consider serving them on a bed of colorful mixed greens to add vibrancy and contrast. Individual serving spoons or cupcake liners can also turn these bites into elegant finger foods perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining their creamy texture and fresh flavor with just a quick reheat.
Freezing
The Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe freezes well before baking. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, approximately 10 minutes. This method preserves their texture much better than microwaving, which can make the mushrooms soggy and the filling less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white and cremini mushrooms are traditional for their size and texture, you can experiment with portobello or button mushrooms. Just make sure they are large enough to hold the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
While shrimp is the delicious highlight here, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting shrimp with finely chopped artichokes or diced roasted red peppers to maintain texture and make a flavorful creamy filling.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, this is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sour cream or mayonnaise. Always double-check ingredient labels to avoid any hidden gluten.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish has a mild warmth thanks to the paprika, but it’s not spicy hot. If you want a little kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the filling.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely! The filling can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Stuff the mushrooms and bake just before serving to keep them fresh and perfectly textured.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special but comes together with ease. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an elegant appetizer, or just treating yourself to something delicious, these stuffed mushrooms deliver every time. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear at your next gathering!
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Creamy Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Deliciously creamy shrimp stuffed mushrooms featuring tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of shrimp, cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
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
Topping (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat 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 Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms carefully and remove their stems. Lightly brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and arrange them cavity-side up on the baking sheet, ready to be filled.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shrimp and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp just turns pink. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and garlic with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, sour cream or mayonnaise, chopped fresh parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Stuff Mushrooms: Spoon the creamy shrimp filling generously into each mushroom cap. If desired, sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops have turned golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the oven, garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt based on preference.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Use cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor, or white mushrooms for a milder taste.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp in the skillet to avoid rubbery texture.
- These stuffed mushrooms are best served fresh but can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- To keep it lower calorie, omit the mozzarella topping.
