Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests with their savory flavors and elegant presentation. Combining tender crab meat with a flavorful mixture of sautéed vegetables, crushed oyster crackers, and cheese, each mushroom cap is a bite-sized treat packed with deliciousness.
Baked until bubbly and golden, they’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or a special family dinner. Easy to make yet sophisticated, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to earn you compliments and requests for the recipe!
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
2 tbsp finely chopped white onion
¼ cup finely diced celery
2 tbsp finely chopped red bell pepper
2 cups crushed oyster crackers
35 fresh, medium to large size mushrooms
½ pound crab meat, use from the claws
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ tsp Old Bay Seasoning
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup water
1 egg
6 slices of white cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400*
Saute the onion, bell pepper and celery in butter, for two minutes. Transfer to a dish and allow to cool in the refrigerator.
While those are cooling, clean the mushrooms and remove the stems and gills
Finely chop half of the removed stems and set to the side. Discard the remaining stems
Combine the cooled vegetables, the finely chopped mushroom stems, the crab meat and all other ingredients except the sliced cheese.
Place all the mushroom caps in a buttered baking dish, or individual baking containers
Place 1 tsp of stuffing mix into each cap,
Break the sliced cheese into smaller squares and cover each cap with a piece of the cheese.
Bake in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is slightly bubbly on top.
Serve and sit back to wait for all the accolades coming your way!
By the way, I sure hope you printed out the recipe, they will be asking for this one!
Notes:
Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Select firm, plump mushrooms without any blemishes. Avoid mushrooms that are slimy or dried out for the best results.
Properly Clean Mushrooms: Gently wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel instead of rinsing them under water. This helps prevent them from getting too wet and soggy.
Enhance Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce to the stuffing mixture for a burst of extra flavor.
Texture Variation: For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, with the stuffing.
Customizable Stuffing: Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
Stuff Generously: Don’t be shy with the stuffing! Fill each mushroom cap generously to ensure they’re flavorful and satisfying.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the mushrooms while they bake. They’re done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, typically around 12-15 minutes.
Serving Warm: Serve the mushrooms warm right out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. They can also be garnished with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms in advance and refrigerate them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Pairing Suggestions: These stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer for any gathering. Serve them alongside a light salad or a dipping sauce, like a tangy cocktail sauce or garlic aioli.
Nutrition Information:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 80 kcal | Total Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 180mg | Total Carbohydrates: 9g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 1g | Protein: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh crab meat?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat as a substitute for fresh crab meat in this recipe.
However, be sure to drain the canned crab meat well before using it, as excess liquid can affect the texture of the stuffing.
Can I make these mushrooms ahead of time and reheat them later?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking.
Simply cover the baking dish or containers with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
When ready, remove from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake as directed in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese for topping the mushrooms?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer.
While the recipe calls for white cheddar cheese slices, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan based on your taste preferences.
Can I omit the egg from the stuffing mixture?
Yes, you can omit the egg from the stuffing mixture if desired.
The egg helps bind the ingredients together, but the stuffing will still hold together well without it.
You may need to adjust the consistency of the stuffing slightly by adding a bit more water if needed.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the crushed oyster crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free, including the seasoning and cheese.
How do I clean mushrooms properly before stuffing?
To clean mushrooms, gently wipe them with a damp paper towel or brush off any dirt with a soft brush.
Avoid rinsing mushrooms under water as they can absorb moisture and become soggy.
Can I prepare the stuffing mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
What can I use as a substitute for oyster crackers?
If you don’t have oyster crackers, you can use breadcrumbs, crushed saltine crackers, or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute in the stuffing mixture.
Can I freeze Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?
While it’s possible to freeze stuffed mushrooms, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
If you plan to freeze them, do so before baking, and then bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when the mushrooms are done baking?
The mushrooms are done baking when the cheese on top is slightly bubbly and golden brown.
You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the stuffing; if it comes out clean, the mushrooms are ready.
What can I serve with Crab Stuffed Mushrooms?
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms can be served as an appetizer or side dish.
They pair well with a variety of dishes such as salads, grilled vegetables, or seafood entrees.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this recipe by omitting the crab meat and using a combination of diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for the stuffing mixture.
How long will Crab Stuffed Mushrooms keep in the refrigerator?
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.