If you’re searching for an appetizer that feels both decadently special and totally doable on a weeknight, look no further than these Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms. Each bite is packed with luscious crab, rich cream cheese, a hint of parmesan, and a punch of garlicky goodness all nestled in tender baked mushroom caps. Whether you’re hosting a holiday bash or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe always earns oohs and a few recipe requests. Prepare yourself for mushroom magic that tastes as luxurious as it looks!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one delivers something crucial to the Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms. The mix of earthy mushrooms, sweet crab, creamy cheeses, and aromatic spices all work together for the ultimate bite. Don’t skip a single component if you want maximum flavor and that irresistible texture!
- Mushroom Caps: Choose large white or cremini mushrooms—sturdy enough to stuff, and the perfect vessel for your creamy filling.
- Lump Crab Meat: Real crab works wonders for briny sweetness; pick through for any shell bits and taste the difference.
- Cream Cheese (softened): The base of the filling, this brings unbeatable creaminess—leave it out for a bit to soften, which makes mixing a breeze.
- Parmesan Cheese (grated): Adds a nutty, salty layer and helps the filling taste even more indulgent.
- Mayonnaise: Trust me on this! Mayo gives the filling extra silkiness and helps everything meld together.
- Minced Garlic: Two fresh cloves bring that savory, aromatic punch you crave in any garlic-forward dish.
- Chopped Green Onions: These provide a gentle bite and a pop of color that brightens up every bite.
- Old Bay Seasoning: The classic spice blend is key for seafood flavor, lending subtle heat and complexity.
- Salt: Just enough salt sharpens all the other flavors without overwhelming the delicate crab.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and little herbal kick at the end of each bite.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): For textural contrast—a toasty, golden finish that’s oh-so-satisfying.
- Melted Butter: Drizzled over the breadcrumbs, it locks in crispiness and adds glorious buttery flavor.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Give those mushrooms a quick but gentle clean, either brushing away any dirt or wiping them with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems (just give them a little twist), which gives you the perfect hollow for stuffing. Set the de-stemmed caps on a parchment-lined baking sheet, dome side down, for easy filling later.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Grab your favorite medium mixing bowl and gently combine the lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, grated parmesan, mayonnaise, minced garlic, green onions, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Take an extra moment to fold the mixture rather than stirring vigorously—this keeps the crab pieces intact and ensures your Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms have a light, chunky texture instead of tasting mushy.
Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms
Using a small spoon (or even your hands if you’re feeling bold!), generously fill each mushroom cap with the rich crab and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy here—heap it high for extra decadence! You want every mushroom overflowing just a little for the best presentation and mouthfeel.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
If you love contrast, whisk together your breadcrumbs with that luscious melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over your stuffed mushrooms, making sure to cover the tops evenly. This step gives Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms their signature golden, crispy crown that everyone races to snag.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen—about 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the mushrooms are tender, the filling is bubbling, and the crumb topping is perfectly golden. Let them cool ever so slightly so you don’t lose a bit of that filling on your first bite!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Garnishes
Finish your Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms with a shower of finely chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for vibrant color and extra pop. If you want to elevate things further, a squeeze of lemon zest or a light dusting of smoked paprika can give these beauties restaurant-worthy visual appeal and a zingy finish.
Side Dishes
These mushrooms shine as an appetizer, but they also play well with so many sides. Try them with a crisp green salad, herby roasted potatoes, or even buttery rice. The rich, creamy filling pairs beautifully with favorite party fare or lighter veggie sides, so you can customize your spread for any occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra wow-factor, nestle Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms on a striking platter lined with leafy greens, or serve them in individual ceramic spoons for cocktail parties. Skewer each one on a toothpick as a bite-sized hors d’oeuvre, or feature them as the star of a surf-and-turf small plates board for a modern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got a few leftovers? Not to worry—store any uneaten Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor and creamy texture for up to 2 days, making them a great make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining or guilt-free snacking the next day.
Freezing
While best fresh, these mushrooms can be frozen in a pinch. Arrange the fully baked (and fully cooled) mushrooms on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about a month—just be aware that the texture of the mushrooms may soften a bit, though the flavor will still delight!
Reheating
To reheat, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, until heated through. Microwaving works in a hurry, but it can make the mushrooms a little watery, so the oven is best for maintaining structure and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh lump crab?
Absolutely! While fresh lump crab has a delicate sweetness and texture, high-quality canned crab can work well in these Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly and check for any bits of shell before mixing into the filling.
What’s the best way to clean mushrooms?
Skip the soak—mushrooms are like little sponges! Simply wipe them with a damp paper towel or gently brush away any dirt for perfectly prepped caps that won’t get soggy during baking.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the mushrooms up to a day in advance and store them unbaked in the refrigerator. Pop them in the oven just before you’re ready to serve for fresh, hot, and creamy results every time.
Is there a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, feel free to substitute with a pinch of celery salt, paprika, a dash of cayenne, and a grind of black pepper. The goal is to keep that gentle heat and savory depth that makes seafood dishes sing.
How do I prevent soggy stuffed mushrooms?
Quick tip: Make sure not to wash the mushrooms under running water, and avoid overbaking. The optional breadcrumb topping helps absorb any extra moisture and adds that wonderful crisp finish we all love in Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a special celebration or just want to treat yourself, these Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms never disappoint. They’re a bite-sized adventure of flavor and texture—just begging to be shared (or secretly enjoyed all on your own). Give them a try, and watch your guests light up with every savory, creamy, and utterly delicious mouthful!
Print
Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 stuffed mushrooms 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delectable Creamy Garlic Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms for a luxurious appetizer that will impress your guests. The rich and savory filling perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms, making this dish a standout at any gathering.
Ingredients
Mushrooms:
- 16 large white or cremini mushrooms (stems removed)
Crab Filling:
- 6 ounces lump crab meat
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F. Clean mushrooms and remove stems. Place caps on a baking sheet.
- Mix Filling: Combine crab meat, cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic, green onions, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff Mushrooms: Fill mushroom caps generously with the crab mixture.
- Add Topping: Optionally, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over mushrooms.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Enhance the filling with lemon juice or cayenne for added flavor.
- Prepare the mushrooms a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed mushroom
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
