Description
Crab stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer featuring large Baby Bella or Cremini mushrooms filled with a creamy mixture of three cheeses, imitation crab meat, and flavorful Cajun and Old Bay seasoning. Perfectly baked or slow cooked, these savory bites are ideal for parties and special dinners.
Ingredients
Mushrooms
- 24 oz. large Baby Bella or Cremini mushrooms (1 16-oz and 1 8-oz or 3 8-oz containers)
Filling
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
- 8 oz. imitation crab meat, chopped into small bits
Topping
- Fine Italian-style bread crumbs or plain bread crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare Mushrooms: Wash the mushrooms thoroughly and remove the stems carefully. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside on a paper towel to ensure they are dry before stuffing.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, cream the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently mix in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sour cream, Cajun seasoning, and Old Bay seasoning. Chop the imitation crab meat into small pieces and fold into the cheese mixture until well combined.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Using clean hands or a spoon, stuff each mushroom cap generously with the crab and cheese filling, shaping it as desired.
- Baked Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed mushrooms in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish in a single layer. Sprinkle a layer of Italian breadcrumbs evenly over the stuffed mushrooms. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the breadcrumb topping is lightly browned. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
- Slow Cooker Method: Lightly grease a 4-5 quart slow cooker with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms inside, layering if necessary, and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Cover and cook on low for 3.5 to 5 hours until mushrooms are soft and the filling is hot throughout.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings in the filling according to your taste preferences.
- You may substitute finely diced shrimp for the imitation crab if preferred.
- Ensure mushrooms are well dried before stuffing to avoid excess moisture.
- For a crispier topping, consider broiling the stuffed mushrooms briefly after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (baked) or 3.5-5 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
