Preparing the Mushrooms:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp cloth and remove the stems. Chop the stems finely.
- Season the mushroom caps lightly with salt and pepper, then place them cap-side-down on the baking sheet.
Making the Filling:
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully cooked and slightly crispy. Remove it from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil, chopped mushroom stems, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and any moisture has evaporated. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Combine the filling: In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Stuffing and Baking:
- Stuff the mushrooms: Fill each mushroom cap generously with the sausage and cheese mixture. Press the filling down slightly to pack it in.
- Bake: Place the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the baked mushrooms with additional chopped parsley. Serve them warm.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
- Serving: Cheesy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are best served warm, making them a hit at gatherings or as a cozy night in snack.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the filling according to your taste. You can add different types of cheese, use hot sausage for a spicy kick, or include other herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor complexity.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a mixture of additional vegetables, like chopped bell peppers or spinach, and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese.
This snack strikes a perfect balance between savory sausage, creamy melted cheese, and the natural umami of mushrooms, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Cheesy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a testament to the idea that delicious snacks can be easy and quick to prepare, making them a superb addition to your culinary repertoire.