Recreate Red Lobster’s famous Crab Stuffed Mushrooms at home with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for appetizers or a special treat!
Introduction
Red Lobster’s Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a beloved appetizer, known for their rich and creamy filling packed with the fresh flavors of crab and cheese. These bite-sized delights are perfect for entertaining guests or adding a touch of elegance to your dinner table. The earthy mushrooms, paired with the savory crab filling, create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
Now you can bring the magic of this restaurant favorite into your own kitchen! This recipe is surprisingly simple and uses ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak to suit your personal taste. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in a treat for yourself, these Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
12 large white or cremini mushrooms
1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for topping)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
2 tablespoons melted butter
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
Prepare the Mushrooms: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and remove the stems. Hollow out the caps slightly with a spoon if needed to make room for the filling.
Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined, then fold in the parsley.
Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the crab mixture generously into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a greased baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the tops with additional breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter for a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
How to Prepare
To get the best results, choose fresh, large mushrooms that are firm and free from blemishes. Cleaning mushrooms properly is essential to remove any dirt without making them soggy. When preparing the filling, opt for high-quality lump crab meat for maximum flavor and texture. If desired, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
The baking process is key to achieving the perfect balance between tender mushrooms and a creamy, flavorful filling. Keep an eye on the oven to ensure the tops don’t overbrown. For added flair, you can sprinkle a touch of paprika or Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 12 stuffed mushrooms, serving 4-6 people as an appetizer.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works well in this recipe. Be sure to drain it thoroughly and pick out any shell pieces before using.
Q2: Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the mushrooms, then store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.
Q3: What can I serve with stuffed mushrooms?
They pair well with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or even a light seafood pasta to complement the flavors.
Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this dish gluten-free.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
These Red Lobster-style Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect way to elevate any meal or gathering. Their combination of creamy, cheesy filling and tender, flavorful mushrooms is truly irresistible. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just enjoy a decadent appetizer, this recipe will surely be a hit.
Impress your family and friends by serving these stuffed mushrooms at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. And don’t forget the lemon wedges—a squeeze of fresh citrus takes these savory bites to the next level. Enjoy the taste of a restaurant-quality appetizer right in the comfort of your home!
