Stuffed mushrooms (2)

Stuffed mushrooms with cheese - a simple, quick, and incredibly tasty delight! These stuffed mushrooms make a perfect appetizer but can also be served as a main dish alongside a fresh salad, making them ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. I invite you to discover how to prepare this captivating recipe that brings simple ingredients to life and transforms ordinary meals into special moments.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg large champignon mushrooms
- 1 green onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 200 g grated cheese
- Thyme (fresh or dried, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling

Step 1: Preparing the mushrooms
Start by carefully cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp cloth to remove dirt, avoiding washing them under running water as they absorb excess moisture. Then, remove the stems of the mushrooms, keeping them for the filling. Place the mushrooms cap-side up in a baking dish and sprinkle a little salt inside each mushroom - this will enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
Finely chop the mushroom stems and green onion. In a pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the mixture of stems and green onion for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly golden. Now, it's time to add the minced garlic, stirring to prevent burning, then remove the pan from heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of grated cheese and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well so that all ingredients combine harmoniously.

Step 3: Stuffing the mushrooms
Each mushroom should be filled with a generous spoonful of the prepared mixture. Make sure they are well filled, but don’t overdo it to avoid breaking the cap. After stuffing, sprinkle grated cheese on top, which will become golden and crispy during baking.

Step 4: Baking
Drizzle the mushrooms with a little olive oil, then place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let them bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. You will smell a delicious aroma filling the entire kitchen!

Step 5: Serving
Serve the stuffed mushrooms warm, as an appetizer or as a main dish. You can garnish them with a few fresh thyme or parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance. These stuffed mushrooms are excellent alongside a crunchy green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, bringing a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips:
- If you don’t have cheese, you can use mozzarella or feta for a different flavor. Each type of cheese will add a unique character to the dish.
- Try adding other ingredients to the filling, such as roasted bell peppers, olives, or even some chopped nuts for extra texture.
- If you want to make them healthier, you can cover them with a crust of whole grain breadcrumbs mixed with herbs.

Nutritional information:
These stuffed mushrooms are nutrient-rich, low in calories, but high in protein due to the cheese. Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants and B vitamins, while cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. A serving of stuffed mushrooms contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! You can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms, which will bring a more intense flavor.

- How can I store the stuffed mushrooms?
If you have leftover mushrooms, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, a fresh citrus-based cocktail, or even a mint lemonade will perfectly complement the flavors of these mushrooms.

In conclusion, stuffed mushrooms with cheese are an excellent choice for a quick and delicious meal. By experimenting with ingredients and presentation, you can transform this simple dish into a true culinary feast. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience! Enjoy!