Irresistible Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe for Any Occasion

Tender mushroom caps create the perfect vessel for delectable crab stuffed mushrooms that burst with oceanic flavors.

Meaty cremini mushrooms provide an elegant base for this luxurious appetizer.

Fresh seafood mingles with creamy cheese and aromatic herbs, promising a sophisticated bite.

Delicate crab meat combines seamlessly with rich, velvary ingredients that complement each other beautifully.

Seasonal ingredients elevate this classic starter into something truly memorable.

Each morsel promises a delightful explosion of maritime charm.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible starter.

Why Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Are So Popular

• Conquer Complexity: This recipe transforms complex ingredients into a simple, manageable dish that even novice cooks can master with confidence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Packed with luxurious crab meat and creamy cheese, these stuffed mushrooms guarantee to impress guests at any gathering, from casual get-togethers to elegant parties.
• Quick Culinary Magic: Preparation takes minimal effort, with straightforward steps that deliver gourmet-style appetizers in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Nutritious Nibble: Combining protein-rich crab meat, nutrient-dense mushrooms, and fresh herbs, this appetizer offers a delicious and wholesome bite that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients For Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Mushrooms: Large, fresh white button or cremini mushrooms that serve as the base for this elegant appetizer.
• Crab Meat: Fresh or high-quality canned crab meat that provides a rich, delicate seafood flavor to the stuffing.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a smooth and creamy base for the stuffing mixture.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Sour Cream: These ingredients add richness and a tangy depth to the crab filling.

• Garlic, Fresh Parsley, Lemon Zest, Salt, Black Pepper: These seasonings bring brightness and complexity to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the filling and provide a subtle textural contrast.
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild, smoky flavor to the stuffed mushrooms.
• Olive Oil: Used for coating the mushrooms and promoting even browning.

Easy Steps To Make Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Surface

Set your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Mushroom Caps

Clean mushrooms thoroughly. Remove stems carefully and create a hollow cavity for stuffing, ensuring the mushroom caps remain structurally sound.

Step 3: Create Creamy Filling Base

• Garlic
• Fresh parsley

Blend these ingredients with softened cream cheese until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Build Rich Filling Mixture

• Crab meat
• Sour cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Lemon zest
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix until ingredients are evenly distributed and create a cohesive filling.

Step 5: Add Binding Element

Gently fold breadcrumbs into the mixture, which will help hold the filling together and introduce a subtle crunch.

Step 6: Fill Mushroom Caps

Use a small spoon to generously stuff each mushroom cap. Mound the filling slightly above the rim for a hearty presentation.

Step 7: Add Flavor Enhancers

Sprinkle paprika across the stuffed mushrooms to introduce color and a gentle smoky undertone.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms to encourage even browning and prevent drying during cooking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-20 minutes. Look for tender mushrooms with golden, slightly crispy tops.

Step 10: Rest and Set

Remove from oven and allow mushrooms to rest 3-5 minutes. This helps the filling set and cool slightly.

Step 11: Final Touch

Garnish with additional fresh parsley to add a vibrant, fresh visual appeal before serving.

Tips To Nail Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Prep Mushrooms Perfectly: Clean mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel instead of washing to prevent excess moisture that could make filling soggy.
• Balance Crab Filling: Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor, ensuring no shell pieces remain in the mixture.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Pat mushrooms dry after cleaning to remove excess water and create a crisp base during baking.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Add a splash of white wine or a dash of Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture for extra complexity.
• Control Portion Size: Choose similar-sized mushrooms to ensure even cooking and consistent stuffing distribution.

Tasty Changes For Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Vegetarian Mushroom Poppers: Replace crab meat with crumbled feta cheese, diced roasted bell peppers, and chopped spinach for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the binding and texture.
• Spicy Seafood Variation: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, and replace mozzarella with pepper jack cheese for a fiery kick.
• Low-Carb Keto-Friendly Version: Eliminate breadcrumbs, increase cream cheese, and use additional herbs like chives and dill for extra flavor without carbohydrates.

What Pairs Best With Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, light white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate crab and mushroom flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Appetizer Companion: Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance the rich, creamy stuffed mushrooms and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Texture Enhancer: Add toasted crusty baguette slices to provide a crunchy counterpoint to the soft mushroom filling, allowing guests to scoop up any extra filling.
• Herb Accent: Sprinkle fresh chives or dill over the mushrooms just before serving to introduce a bright, aromatic layer that elevates the seafood and cream cheese elements.

Storing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms The Smart Way

• Store leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container, keeping them fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Cover with plastic wrap or sealed lid to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Carefully place cooled mushrooms in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Avoid freezing to preserve the delicate texture of crab and mushrooms.
• Warm individual portions on medium power for 30-45 seconds. Check temperature and avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture. Place on microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with damp paper towel.
• Preheat oven to 350°F.

FAQ About Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Can I use frozen crab meat instead of fresh?

Yes, thawed frozen crab meat works perfectly. Just ensure you drain it completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

• Are these mushrooms suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe celiac-friendly. Regular breadcrumbs can be easily substituted without compromising taste.

• What type of mushrooms work best for this recipe?

Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are ideal. They provide a perfect size and shape for stuffing, with a mild flavor that complements the crab filling.

• How can I tell if the mushrooms are properly cooked?

Look for golden-brown tops and tender mushroom caps. The edges should appear slightly crispy, and the filling should be heated through and slightly bubbling.

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent crab stuffed mushrooms bring coastal elegance to your appetizer spread, delivering rich seafood flavor in one irresistible bite. Packed with creamy herbs and delicate crab meat, these bite-sized delights will charm guests at your next gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood Ingredients:

• 8 oz crab meat
• 1/2 lb large mushrooms

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasoning and Aromatic Ingredients:

• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of olive oil.
2. Carefully clean mushrooms, removing stems and creating a hollow cavity for stuffing, ensuring they remain intact.
3. Finely mince garlic and chop fresh parsley, then combine with softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl.
4. Fold in crab meat, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, creating a smooth and well-integrated filling.
5. Gently incorporate breadcrumbs into the mixture, which will help bind the ingredients and provide a subtle textural contrast.
6. Using a small spoon, generously fill each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, mounding slightly above the rim.
7. Sprinkle paprika over the stuffed mushrooms for added color and a mild, smoky flavor enhancement.
8. Drizzle olive oil across the mushrooms to promote even browning and prevent drying.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow filling to set and cool slightly before serving.
11. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a bright, fresh presentation.

Notes

• Choose smaller mushroom caps for bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties and easy to eat.
• Use fresh lump crab meat for the most delicate and authentic flavor, avoiding canned alternatives when possible.
• Keep the cream cheese at room temperature to ensure smooth and easy mixing of the stuffing ingredients.
• For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to maintain the binding texture.
• Pat crab meat dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture from making the filling soggy.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar or gruyère for unique flavor profiles.
• Opt for baby bella or cremini mushrooms as they have a meatier texture and more robust flavor compared to white button mushrooms.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg