Baked Cheese Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms: An Elegant and Flavorful Appetizer

Baked Cheese Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms: An Elegant and Flavorful Appetizer

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer, these Baked Cheese Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect choice. Juicy mushroom caps are filled with a creamy blend of cheese and pesto, topped with golden, crunchy breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection. Nestled in a tangy tomato sauce, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a flavorful side, these stuffed mushrooms are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. They’re the perfect balance of earthy, cheesy, and herby goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for minimal fuss.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for entertaining or elevating a weeknight meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of pesto, cheese, and mushrooms is irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Mushrooms:

• 12 large mushroom caps (like cremini or button mushrooms)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

Optional Base:

• 1 cup marinara sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems. Gently scoop out the insides to make room for the filling. Brush the caps with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Arrange them in a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, pesto, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms

1. Spoon the cheese and pesto mixture generously into each mushroom cap, leveling the tops.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil and parsley. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the stuffed mushrooms.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. If using marinara sauce, spread it evenly in the baking dish around the mushrooms.
2. Bake the mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the mushrooms from the oven, garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Chef’s Tips

• Cheese Substitution: Swap ricotta for goat cheese or cream cheese for mascarpone for a unique twist.
• Pesto Variations: Use red pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Breadcrumb Hack: For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve with a small side of garlic crostini.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
• With Wine: Enjoy alongside a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir for a complete dining experience.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Add finely chopped spinach to the filling for extra greens.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for heat.
• Meaty Option: Incorporate crumbled cooked sausage or bacon into the filling.