Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage (Easy Party Appetizer)

Stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Juicy mushrooms are filled with a savory sausage mixture, baked until golden, and served warm—perfect for holidays, game days, or family dinners.

I love recipes like this because they’re simple yet always impressive, making them ideal for entertaining. Plus, they use easy-to-find ingredients and can be prepped ahead of time. If you’re craving more cheesy, hearty mushroom recipes, you’ll also enjoy my mushroom mozzarella bake for another comforting favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage

• Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, savory flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile enough to serve as a holiday appetizer or a casual snack.
• Can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, thanks to the Italian sausage and creamy cheese.

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Ingredients for Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh white mushrooms: These are the stars of the dish, providing a meaty texture that holds the stuffing beautifully.
• Olive oil: A must for sautéing and drizzling, it adds richness and helps the mushrooms cook evenly.
• Sweet Italian sausage: This is where the flavor really shines! It brings a savory, slightly sweet taste that pairs perfectly with the mushrooms.
• Shallots: These add a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering it.
• Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds depth and aroma to the filling.
• Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs bring a fragrant, earthy note that complements the sausage beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help to elevate all the flavors in the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but if you like a little heat, sprinkle some in for a spicy kick!
• Dry white wine: This adds acidity and depth, helping to balance the richness of the sausage and cheese.
• Mascarpone cheese: Creamy and rich, it binds the filling together and adds a luxurious texture. You can substitute it with cream cheese if you prefer.
• Panko bread crumbs: These give the stuffing a delightful crunch, making each bite satisfying.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this on top adds a savory, cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delicious Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want those mushrooms to bake perfectly, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms

Next, clean your fresh white mushrooms. Gently wipe them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Then, carefully twist and remove the stems. Set the caps aside and chop the stems finely. They’ll add extra flavor to your stuffing!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your stuffing.

Step 4: Cook the Italian Sausage

Now, it’s time to add the sweet Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible, and your kitchen will start to feel like an Italian trattoria!

Step 5: Add Herbs and Seasoning

Once the sausage is browned, stir in the minced rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. These herbs and spices will elevate the flavor profile, making your stuffed mushrooms truly savory.

Step 6: Incorporate the Wine

Pour in the dry white wine and let it cook until the liquid evaporates, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds depth to the filling, balancing the richness of the sausage and cheese. You’ll love the way it enhances the overall taste!

Step 7: Mix in the Cheeses and Breadcrumbs

Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the mascarpone cheese, panko bread crumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick, perfect for stuffing!

Step 8: Stuff the Mushrooms

Now, it’s time to fill those mushroom caps! Use a spoon to generously stuff each cap with the sausage mixture. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! This is where the magic happens, and each bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 9: Bake the Stuffed Mushrooms

Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the tops. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in a flash!

Tips for Success

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each mushroom space to cook evenly.
• For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the filling.
• Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Let the stuffed mushrooms cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Equipment Needed

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
• Baking sheet: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips.
• Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl is perfect for combining the filling.
• Spoon: A regular spoon or a small cookie scoop for stuffing the mushrooms.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping shallots and herbs.

Variations To Try

• Spicy Italian Sausage: Swap sweet sausage for spicy Italian sausage to kick up the heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed spinach, artichokes, and feta cheese for a delicious meatless version.
• Cheesy Delight: Add a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy filling.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these stuffed mushrooms with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside a glass of dry white wine to complement the savory flavors.
• For a festive touch, arrange them on a beautiful platter with fresh herbs.
• Offer a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the Italian flair.
• Garnish with extra parsley or grated parmesan for an elegant presentation.

FAQs about Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage

Conclusion

Making stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage is about more than creating a quick appetizer—it’s about sharing something savory and satisfying with the people you love. Each bite delivers tender mushrooms and flavorful sausage filling, making them disappear fast at any gathering.

For cozy dinners, my one-pot mushroom stroganoff is another dish that never disappoints. And when you want to elevate your steak dinner, my creamy mushroom sauce for steak makes the perfect pairing.

This recipe is a tried-and-true favorite in my home, and I know it will become a staple in yours too. Did you enjoy these stuffed mushrooms? Save the recipe on Pinterest so you can find it easily, or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly ideas that keep cooking simple and delicious.