Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory flavors with irresistible texture. Juicy mushroom caps are filled with a rich mixture of seasoned sausage, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs, then baked until golden and bubbling.
This recipe is perfect for parties, holidays, game days, or even as a hearty snack. It’s one of those dishes that looks impressive on the table but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a reliable favorite for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Why I Love This Recipe
The savory sausage, melted cheese, and tender mushrooms come together in a way that feels comforting, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of appetizer that always gets compliments and disappears quickly at gatherings. I also love how versatile it is—you can easily adjust the spice level, switch up the cheese, or make it ahead of time, which makes it stress-free for entertaining.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Perfect appetizer for parties and holidays
- Rich, savory, and satisfying flavors
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Customizable with different cheeses and seasonings
- Always a crowd favorite
Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories: Approximately 210 calories per serving
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Ingredients
- 16–20 large button or cremini mushrooms
- 8 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean mushrooms and remove stems.
- Cook sausage until browned and fully cooked.
- Mix sausage with cheeses, garlic, and seasonings.
- Stuff mushroom caps with filling.
- Bake until mushrooms are tender and tops are golden.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Remove stems and finely chop them for added texture if desired.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine cooked sausage, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Stuff the Mushrooms
Arrange mushroom caps on a baking sheet. Fill each cap generously with the sausage mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 22–25 minutes, until mushrooms are tender and filling is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve
Serve Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms warm as an appetizer or party snack. They pair well with dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli and make a great addition to appetizer platters.
Recipe Tips
- Use large mushrooms for easier stuffing
- Drain sausage well to prevent soggy mushrooms
- Let mushrooms rest 5 minutes before serving
- Line baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup
- Add breadcrumbs for extra texture if desired
Variations
Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in cream cheese or ricotta for a creamier filling.
Low-Carb Option: Skip breadcrumbs and focus on cheese and sausage.
Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed spinach and onions.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or basil for extra aroma.
Freezing and Storage
Storage:
Store leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Freeze unbaked stuffed mushrooms on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stuffing
Conclusion
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a flavorful, comforting appetizer that never fails to impress. With their rich filling, tender mushroom base, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and always delicious, this recipe is a must-have for your appetizer collection.
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Description
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory flavors with irresistible texture. Juicy mushroom caps are filled with a rich mixture of seasoned sausage, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs, then baked until golden and bubbling.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mushrooms : Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Remove stems and finely chop them for added texture if desired.
-
Cook the Sausage : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
-
Make the Filling : In a bowl, combine cooked sausage, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
-
Stuff the Mushrooms : Arrange mushroom caps on a baking sheet. Fill each cap generously with the sausage mixture.
-
Bake : Bake for 22–25 minutes, until mushrooms are tender and filling is bubbly and lightly golden.
-
Garnish and Serve : Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
