Pizza Stuffed Mushrooms: A Delicious and Easy Appetizer Recipe

Pizza stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic appetizer or snack that combines the savory goodness of pizza with the earthy flavor of mushrooms. They are relatively easy to make, customizable to your favorite pizza toppings, and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe provides detailed instructions and tips to help you create perfect pizza stuffed mushrooms every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy to Make:** The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
* **Customizable:** You can adapt the toppings to suit your taste preferences.
* **Delicious:** The combination of mushrooms, cheese, and pizza toppings is irresistible.
* **Perfect for Parties:** These stuffed mushrooms are an excellent appetizer for gatherings.
* **Versatile:** Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Large Mushrooms:** Choose large, firm mushrooms like cremini or portobello. The size of the mushrooms will determine how much filling you can add. About 24 cremini mushrooms should be enough for a hearty batch.
* **Olive Oil:** Used for sautéing the mushroom stems and drizzling over the finished mushrooms. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
* **Garlic:** Adds a savory depth to the filling. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
* **Onion:** Finely diced onion provides a subtle sweetness and texture to the filling. Yellow or white onions work well.
* **Italian Seasoning:** A blend of dried herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor. You can find Italian seasoning at most grocery stores, or you can make your own blend using oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
* **Pizza Sauce:** Use your favorite pizza sauce. Store-bought or homemade both work well. Look for a sauce that is rich and flavorful.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** The classic pizza cheese. Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture. You can also use a combination of mozzarella and other cheeses like provolone or parmesan.
* **Pepperoni:** Diced pepperoni adds a spicy and savory element. You can substitute with other pizza toppings like sausage, ham, or vegetables.
* **Optional Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Some other options include cooked sausage, bell peppers, black olives, mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, or jalapenos.
* **Fresh Basil:** Adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the finished mushrooms. Chopped fresh basil is the perfect garnish.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste, for seasoning the filling and the mushrooms.

Equipment Needed

* **Baking Sheet:** To bake the stuffed mushrooms.
* **Large Skillet:** To sauté the mushroom stems and other filling ingredients.
* **Small Bowl:** To mix the filling.
* **Knife and Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables and pepperoni.
* **Spoon:** For scooping out the mushroom stems and stuffing the mushrooms.
* **Measuring Spoons and Cups:** For measuring ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Wash the mushrooms gently under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Be careful not to soak them, as they will absorb water.
* Gently remove the stems from the mushrooms. You can use a small spoon or your fingers to do this. Set the mushroom caps aside.
* Finely chop the mushroom stems. These will be used in the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped mushroom stems, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet.
* Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
* In a small bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom stem mixture, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, diced pepperoni, and Italian seasoning.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms

* Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray.
* Place the mushroom caps on the prepared baking sheet, open side up.
* Spoon the filling into each mushroom cap, packing it in firmly.
* Drizzle the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with a little olive oil.

Step 4: Bake the Mushrooms

* Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking sheet with foil.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

* Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the stuffed mushrooms cool slightly.
* Garnish with chopped fresh basil.
* Serve the pizza stuffed mushrooms warm. They are best enjoyed immediately.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Stuffed Mushrooms

* **Choose the Right Mushrooms:** Select large, firm mushrooms that are free of blemishes. Cremini or portobello mushrooms are ideal for stuffing.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Make sure the mushrooms have enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of bake properly.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** The baking time may vary depending on the size of your mushrooms and your oven. Keep an eye on them and adjust the baking time as needed.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different pizza toppings. Some other options include cooked sausage, bell peppers, black olives, mushrooms, spinach, artichoke hearts, or jalapenos.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh ingredients will always result in the best flavor. Use freshly minced garlic, diced onion, and chopped basil for the most delicious results.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the filling and the mushrooms generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will help to enhance the flavors.
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time and bake them just before serving. This is a great option if you are hosting a party.
* **Reheat Leftovers:** Leftover pizza stuffed mushrooms can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.

Variations and Additions

* **Vegetarian:** Omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, black olives, mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts.
* **Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy sausage or jalapenos as toppings.
* **Cheesy:** Use a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, or fontina.
* **Garlic Bread Style:** Mix melted butter with garlic powder and drizzle over the mushrooms before baking for a garlic bread inspired flavor.
* **Pesto Stuffed:** Substitute the pizza sauce with pesto for a different flavor profile.
* **Margarita Style:** Use fresh mozzarella slices and tomato slices with basil after baking for a margarita pizza flavor.

Serving Suggestions

* Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
* Serve as a snack for game day.
* Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.
* Serve as a light meal with a side salad.
* Add to a charcuterie board for a delightful addition.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 150-200
* Protein: 8-12g
* Fat: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 5-8g

*Note: Nutritional information varies based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

Pizza Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

This recipe will serve approximately 6 people as an appetizer.

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 24 large cremini mushrooms
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
* 1/2 cup diced pepperoni
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash mushrooms and remove stems. Finely chop the stems.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped mushroom stems, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, combine sautéed mixture, pizza sauce, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Lightly grease a baking sheet. Place mushroom caps on the sheet, open side up.
7. Spoon filling into each mushroom cap, packing firmly.
8. Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the mushrooms.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious pizza stuffed mushrooms! This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.