White Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms

Prepare cheesy white cheddar stuffed mushrooms with a crispy Parmesan-panko topping. A crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties and gatherings, featuring easy steps and delicious flavors.

Ingredients

Parmesan Panko Mushrooms

• 24 white button mushrooms or baby portobello mushrooms
• 1 ½ cups herb pub cheese (see notes)
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 slices provolone cheese, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons half and half
• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs

White Cheddar Sauce (Makes 1 Cup)

• 1 cup white cheddar cheese, grated and tossed in 1 tablespoon flour (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional)
• ¼ cup half and half
• ⅛ cup dry white wine
• ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ⅛ teaspoon dry mustard
• Dash of pepper
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or substitute sour cream)

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Instructions

Preparing the White Cheddar Sauce

1. Grate the Cheese: Grate the white cheddar cheese and allow it to reach room temperature. Toss it in 1 tablespoon of flour to ensure a smooth melt.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the half and half, white wine, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, pepper, and mayonnaise or sour cream. Set aside.
3. Heat Sauce: Use a double boiler over simmering water to heat the mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. (If you don’t have a double boiler, set a metal or glass bowl over a small saucepan.)
4. Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the grated cheddar, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
5. Serving Options:
   • Spread the sauce onto a serving plate and place mushrooms on top.
   • Drizzle the sauce lightly over the mushrooms.
   • Serve the sauce in ramekins as a dipping option. Provide forks for ease.

Making the Stuffed Mushrooms

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Mushrooms: Wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to clean. Use a paring knife to trace around the stem and gently remove it. (Save the stems for homemade stock by dicing and freezing them.)
3. Stuff Mushrooms: Fill each mushroom with herb pub cheese, just below the top edge.
4. Prepare Topping: Combine grated Parmesan, chopped provolone, and half and half in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 25 seconds, then stir in the Panko breadcrumbs. Let the mixture cool; it will harden slightly, making it easier to handle.
5. Top Mushrooms: Use your hands to evenly distribute the topping onto each mushroom. Avoid over-stuffing to prevent overflow while baking.
6. Bake: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place the mushrooms on the sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are firm enough to hold their shape. Rotate mushrooms halfway through for even browning.
7. Cool Before Serving: Let the mushrooms sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and cool slightly to avoid burns.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The white cheddar sauce adds a luxurious flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the cheese and filling to suit your preferences.
• Elegant Appetizer: Perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion.
• Simple Prep: Easy-to-follow steps for a gourmet result.

Tips

• Even Cooking: Rotate the mushrooms during baking for consistent browning.
• Make-Ahead Sauce: Prepare the white cheddar sauce ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
• Perfect Stuffing: Avoid over-stuffing to keep the filling from overflowing.
• Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure the cheddar cheese is at room temperature for smooth melting.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Alternatives: Swap white cheddar for Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based cheese and omit Worcestershire sauce.
• Filling Adjustments: Add cooked sausage, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing.
• Breadcrumbs: Substitute Panko with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, baby portobello or cremini mushrooms are great alternatives.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the mushrooms and stuffing ahead, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What can I use instead of white wine?
Substitute with chicken broth or additional half and half.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair With: Serve alongside a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• Presentation Tip: Drizzle white cheddar sauce over mushrooms for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Occasions: Ideal for holiday appetizers, dinner parties, or casual gatherings.