These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a delightful combination of earthy, meaty mushrooms and creamy, cheesy filling. The ricotta and Parmesan blend beautifully with wilted spinach, creating a rich and savory stuffing that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Baked to perfection, the mozzarella on top turns golden and bubbly, adding the perfect finishing touch to this dish. Perfect as a meatless main dish or a gourmet side, these stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic way to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table with minimal effort. Whether served with a fresh salad, over a bed of quinoa, or as a complement to grilled meats, they’re sure to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems and gills removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush both sides of the mushroom caps with olive oil and place them gill-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until they begin to release moisture.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix together the spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture evenly into the mushroom caps and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4
Why You Should Try This Recipe
1. A Perfect Low-Carb Alternative
For those who are watching their carb intake, these stuffed portobello mushrooms provide a wonderful alternative to traditional pasta or bread-based meals. Portobello mushrooms are naturally low in carbohydrates, making them an excellent option for keto and low-carb diets. The creamy cheese filling provides both protein and fat, helping to keep you full and satisfied without unnecessary sugars or refined grains.
2. Packed with Nutrients
This dish is loaded with nutrients that benefit your overall health. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that promote good health and support immune function. Mushrooms, on the other hand, are rich in B vitamins, potassium, and selenium, which contribute to better metabolism and immune system support. The cheeses used in the recipe add calcium and protein, making this a well-rounded meal.
3. Easy to Prepare with Minimal Ingredients
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like something from a high-end restaurant. The preparation process is straightforward, requiring basic cooking techniques like sautéing and baking. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome.
4. Versatile and Customizable
This recipe serves as a great base for customization. While the classic version features spinach and cheese, you can add other ingredients to suit your preferences. Some delicious variations include:
- Adding Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken, ground turkey, or tofu for added protein.
- Enhancing the Flavor: Try mixing in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for extra depth.
- Vegan Alternative: Replace dairy cheese with plant-based cheese and use nutritional yeast to maintain a cheesy flavor without animal products.
5. A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple weekday meal, these stuffed mushrooms fit the bill. Their elegant appearance makes them suitable for special occasions, while their ease of preparation ensures they can be enjoyed any day of the week. They can also be made ahead of time, making meal prep a breeze.
Serving Suggestions
1. As a Main Course
Since portobello mushrooms have a naturally hearty texture, they make for a great meatless main course. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
2. As a Side Dish
These stuffed mushrooms work wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or pasta. The combination of cheesy goodness with the umami-rich mushrooms complements a variety of main dishes.
3. Perfect for Entertaining
If you’re planning a dinner party, these mushrooms make an excellent appetizer or part of a larger spread. Serve them on a platter with other small bites like bruschetta, stuffed peppers, or roasted nuts for a well-rounded selection.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Mushrooms
1. Choose Fresh and Firm Mushrooms
The quality of the mushrooms is crucial for the best results. Look for portobello mushrooms that are firm, plump, and free of any slimy spots. Removing the stems and gills properly will create more space for the stuffing while ensuring the mushrooms don’t become too watery when baked.
2. Pre-Bake the Mushrooms
One of the biggest mistakes when making stuffed mushrooms is skipping the pre-baking step. Since mushrooms contain a lot of moisture, baking them first helps release some of the excess liquid before adding the filling. This prevents the final dish from becoming too soggy.
3. Balance the Seasoning
The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella already provides a good amount of saltiness, so be mindful when adding extra salt. Taste the filling before stuffing the mushrooms to ensure the flavors are well-balanced. You can also enhance the taste with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano.
4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
For the best texture, bake the stuffed mushrooms until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden brown on top. This ensures that all the flavors meld together while creating a deliciously gooey, cheesy topping.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their quality.
Refrigeration
Place the stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent excess moisture buildup, you can line the container with a paper towel.
Freezing
While these mushrooms can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. If freezing, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to one month.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the mushrooms in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make them rubbery and overly soft.
Conclusion:
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and valuable nutrition. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a hearty meal or simply want to enjoy a delicious and healthy dish, these mushrooms are an excellent choice. They are easy to make, highly customizable, and suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings.
By following simple techniques like pre-baking the mushrooms, balancing the seasoning, and ensuring a golden, bubbly topping, you can create a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become one of your new favorite go-to meals!
