Looking for a delightful appetizer to impress your guests at your next gathering? Introducing the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms recipe! These savory treats combine the richness of crab with earthy mushrooms and a hint of cheese, creating a gourmet experience that is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to add elegance to your menu, these crab-stuffed mushrooms are sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
- Gourmet Delight: Impress your guests with this deceptively luxurious appetizer.
- Perfect Combination: The flavors of crab, vegetables, and cheese meld beautifully.
- Easy Prep: Simple steps yield complex flavors.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve warm with a glass of bubbly for a special touch.
Ingredient Notes
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, gooey texture.
- Onion, Celery, Red Bell Pepper: Provide depth and flavor.
- Old Bay Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the taste profile.
- Oyster Crackers: For subtle crunch.
- Mushrooms: Fresh, large ones work best.
- Crab Claw Meat: Sweet and delicate seafood.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- White Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully on top.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Step 1: Preparing the Filling
- Heat the oven to 400°F.
- Saute celery, bell pepper, and onion until tender.
- Chill the sauteed vegetables.
- Remove stems and gills from mushrooms; finely chop half of the stems.
Step 2: Mixing and Filling
- Combine sauteed veggies, mushroom stems, cheddar cheese, seasonings, crackers, water, crab, and egg in a bowl.
- Fill mushrooms with the mixture.
- Top with cheese slices.
- Bake until bubbly and golden, around 12-15 minutes.
Storage Options
To preserve the flavors, assemble the mushrooms ahead of time but bake just before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the best taste is ensured when enjoyed fresh within a couple of days.
Variations and Substitutions
- Canned Crab: A budget-friendly alternative to fresh crab.
- Shrimp: Substitute crab with shrimp for a different seafood twist.
- Cheese: Experiment with Swiss or Emmentaler for diverse flavor profiles.
What to Serve With Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
- Green Salad: Accompany with a light salad for fresh contrast.
- Sparkling Wine: Enhance the luxurious experience with a glass of bubbles.
- Garlic Bread: Savor the flavors with a side of warm, garlicky bread.
- Citrusy Sorbet: A palate cleanser to refresh after the rich appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, assemble in advance, but bake just before serving for optimal taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate and gently reheat to enjoy the best taste.
Any ingredient swaps possible?
Use canned crab or consider different cheese options for variety.
After indulging in these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, you can expect a harmonious blend of oceanic sweetness, savory vegetables, and creamy cheese. The tender mushrooms encapsulate a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, celery, red bell pepper finely chopped
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Oyster crackers
- 12 large mushrooms
- 1/2 cup crab claw meat
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup white cheddar cheese sliced
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Saute celery, bell pepper, and onion until tender.
- Remove stems and gills from mushrooms; finely chop half of the stems.
- Combine sauteed veggies, mushroom stems, cheddar cheese, seasonings, crackers, water, crab, and egg in a bowl.
- Fill mushrooms with the mixture.
- Top with cheese slices and bake until bubbly and golden, around 12-15 minutes.