There’s something undeniably comforting about a tray of warm, golden stuffed mushrooms coming out of the oven—their savory aroma filling the kitchen, signaling that something special is about to be enjoyed. Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs are a timeless appetizer that perfectly balances elegance and simplicity. They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and make an impressive addition to any spread, whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, celebrating a family milestone, or enjoying a cozy night in.
This recipe draws inspiration from classic Mediterranean flavors—fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of creamy cheese—all nestled inside tender mushroom caps. It’s a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether served as part of a Thanksgiving appetizer platter or as a delightful side to your favorite entrée, these stuffed mushrooms promise to be the first dish to disappear at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are the kind of appetizer that checks all the boxes: easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and beautifully versatile. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation:
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Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese creates a savory filling that enhances the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: They’re ideal for parties, dinners, and even as a light snack for movie nights.
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Vegetarian-Friendly: A satisfying option that pleases both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
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Simple and Elegant: Made with everyday ingredients, yet they look and taste like something straight from a restaurant.
Whether you serve them warm from the oven or at room temperature, these mushrooms never fail to impress.
Ingredients
For the Mushrooms
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20 large white or cremini mushrooms
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
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Extra chopped herbs
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Grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil before serving
Directions
1. Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove any dirt—avoid soaking them in water, as mushrooms absorb moisture easily.
Carefully remove the stems from each mushroom and set them aside. Place the cleaned mushroom caps on the prepared baking sheet, hollow side up. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This step enhances the natural umami flavor of the mushrooms while ensuring they roast beautifully.
2. Make the Filling
Finely chop the reserved mushroom stems. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped stems, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions turn translucent.
Next, stir in the breadcrumbs and toast them lightly in the pan for 2 minutes. This helps absorb the moisture from the vegetables while adding texture. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in the Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Stir until the filling is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Mushrooms
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each mushroom cap generously with the prepared mixture, pressing gently to compact the filling. You can slightly mound the tops to create a beautiful, rounded look.
Arrange the stuffed mushrooms back on the baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to promote even browning.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender. The cheese should melt into the filling, creating a rich, aromatic bite in every piece.
Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with extra chopped herbs or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve warm, and watch as your guests can’t resist going back for seconds.
Flavor Variations
One of the joys of stuffed mushrooms is their flexibility. Here are a few ways to customize your filling based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences:
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Cheesy Herb Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or feta for extra creaminess.
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Spinach and Garlic Mix: Stir in chopped spinach for a vibrant, nutrient-rich twist.
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Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean spin.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a subtle crunch.
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Zesty Lemon Touch: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a bright, refreshing note.
Each variation enhances the classic garlic and herb base, allowing you to reinvent the recipe every time you make it.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mushrooms
Creating restaurant-quality stuffed mushrooms at home is easy when you follow a few key tips:
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Choose the Right Mushrooms: Large white or cremini mushrooms work best since they have sturdy caps that hold the filling well.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between mushrooms on the baking sheet to allow for even roasting.
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Don’t Overbake: Mushrooms release moisture as they cook—bake just until tender to prevent sogginess.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and aroma that dried herbs can’t fully replicate.
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Serve Fresh: Stuffed mushrooms are best enjoyed shortly after baking, while warm and aromatic.
Serving Suggestions
These Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs make a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire your next gathering:
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Holiday Appetizer: Serve them on a platter alongside dips and roasted vegetables for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
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Dinner Party Starter: Pair them with a crisp salad or soup for an elegant first course.
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Casual Snack: Enjoy them as a light evening snack with family or friends.
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Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, beef, or fish to complement a hearty main course.
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Vegetarian Spread: Add them to a mezze-style platter with hummus, grilled vegetables, and warm pita.
Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for entertaining—no utensils required, just pure enjoyment.
How to Make Ahead and Store
If you’re hosting a large event, this recipe can easily be prepared in advance. Here’s how to plan ahead:
To Make Ahead
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Prepare the Filling: You can make the garlic-herb filling up to two days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
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Pre-Stuff the Mushrooms: Assemble the mushrooms, place them on a tray, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
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Bake When Ready: Pop them in the oven just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
To Store Leftovers
Place cooled stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutritional Highlights
These mushrooms are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Mushrooms are naturally low in calories and fat while offering a good dose of vitamin D, potassium, and antioxidants. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while the herbs add phytonutrients and freshness. It’s a guilt-free treat that fits well into a balanced diet.
Here’s a quick estimate (per serving of 4 mushrooms):
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Calories: 120
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 7g
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Fiber: 2g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is quite simple, a few missteps can affect the final result. Keep these points in mind:
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Skipping the Pre-Seasoning: Seasoning the mushroom caps before stuffing enhances flavor throughout.
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Using Wet Mushrooms: Always pat mushrooms dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
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Overfilling: Too much filling can overflow and prevent even cooking.
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Neglecting Texture: Balance creamy and crunchy elements in your filling for the perfect bite.



