If you’re craving a delicious appetizer that combines rich flavors with a touch of elegance, Red Lobster stuffed mushrooms are the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats bring together juicy mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cheese, herbs, and seafood-inspired goodness. They’re easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the rich seafood and cheesy goodness in every bite. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to prepare this irresistible appetizer.
Mushrooms
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
Choose firm and fresh mushrooms without blemishes to hold the stuffing well.
Filling Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lobster meat | 1 cup | Cooked, chopped into bite-sized pieces |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces | Softened |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Grated |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ cup | Shredded |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | Finely chopped |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Breadcrumbs | ¼ cup | To add texture |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Topping Ingredients
- Extra Parmesan cheese — 2 tablespoons, for a golden cheesy crust
- Paprika — ¼ teaspoon, to add a subtle smoky flavor and color
- Fresh parsley — 1 teaspoon, finely chopped, for garnish
These ingredients combine to deliver the signature savory and cheesy filling packed with the delicate flavor of lobster, topped with a perfectly crisp layer to finish.
Equipment Needed
To make our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures each step goes smoothly and the final dish turns out beautifully golden and bursting with flavor.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large mixing bowls for combining the cheese, lobster, herbs, and seasonings evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing mushroom stems and chopping garlic, green onions, and parsley finely.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for safe and efficient chopping.
- Spoon or Small Scoop: Ideal to hollow out mushrooms cleanly and to fill them with the creamy lobster mixture.
Cooking and Baking Equipment
- Baking Sheet or Ovenproof Tray: A rimmed baking sheet to hold mushrooms steadily while baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Oven: Preheat to the specified temperature for even cooking and the perfect melt and golden topping.
- Cooling Rack: Allows mushrooms to rest briefly after baking without sogginess.
Optional but Helpful
- Food Processor: To pulse ingredients like breadcrumbs or herbs for a finer texture.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing tops lightly with melted butter or oil to enhance browning.
- Tongs: For safely transferring hot mushrooms from baking sheet to serving plate.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine ingredients smoothly |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient portioning |
| Sharp Knife | Chop mushrooms, herbs, and garlic |
| Baking Sheet | Hold mushrooms while baking |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent sticking and ease cleanup |
| Oven | Bake mushrooms to golden perfection |
| Spoon / Small Scoop | Hollow and stuff mushrooms evenly |
| Cooling Rack | Rest cooked mushrooms to retain texture |
| Food Processor (Optional) | Finer ingredient chopping |
| Pastry Brush (Optional) | Enhance browning with butter/oil |
| Tongs (Optional) | Safe handling of hot mushrooms |
Equipping ourselves with these tools sets us on track to create mouthwatering Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms that impress both in taste and presentation.
Prep Work
Before assembling our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms, thorough and precise prep work is essential. This ensures each bite bursts with the right balance of flavors and textures.
Preparing the Mushrooms
- Select large white or cremini mushrooms with firm caps.
- Gently wipe mushrooms clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid rinsing with water to prevent sogginess.
- Remove stems carefully by twisting them out or using a paring knife.
- Finely chop the removed stems and set aside for the filling.
- Use a small spoon or melon baller to hollow out the center of each cap further if needed, creating extra space for stuffing.
- Arrange the cleaned and hollowed mushroom caps on a parchment-lined baking sheet, gill side up, ready for filling.
Preparing the Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl combine these prepared ingredients carefully:
| Ingredient | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lobster meat | Chopped into bite-size pieces | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | Softened to room temperature | 4 oz |
| Shredded cheese | A blend like cheddar and mozzarella | ½ cup |
| Garlic | Minced | 2 cloves |
| Green onions | Thinly sliced | 2 stalks |
| Finely chopped mushroom stems | Reserved from earlier step | All |
| Fresh parsley | Chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | Freshly squeezed | 1 tsp |
| Breadcrumbs | For added texture | ¼ cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | As needed |
- Mix all ingredients briskly until fully combined but still slightly chunky, preserving the texture of the lobster and mushroom.
- Taste the filling and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice to enhance the savory notes.
- Keep the filling chilled until ready to stuff the mushroom caps.
Pro Tip: For a smoother filling, pulse the mixture gently in a food processor, but avoid over-processing to maintain a satisfyingly rich texture.
This structured prep guarantees every element of our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms delivers its signature savory richness and cheesy delight.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms that impress with every bite. We will guide you through making the filling, stuffing the mushrooms, and baking them to golden perfection.
Making the Stuffed Mushroom Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese (softened) with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Add 1 cup of fresh lobster meat, finely chopped mushroom stems, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 3 finely chopped green onions.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness.
- Sprinkle in ½ cup of seasoned breadcrumbs, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined but still slightly chunky to maintain texture.
- Pro Tip: Use a food processor for 10 seconds if you prefer a smoother filling but avoid over-processing to keep a rich, textured bite.
Stuffing the Mushrooms
- Take your prepared mushroom caps and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Using a small spoon or scoop, carefully fill each mushroom cap generously with the lobster cheese filling.
- Press the filling down gently to compact it without tearing the mushroom cap.
- Leave a slight mound of filling on top to create a casserole-like crust after baking.
| Step | Detail | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mushroom selection | Firm, white or cremini caps | Avoid cracked or soft mushrooms |
| Filling amount | About 1 to 2 tablespoons | Adjust based on mushroom size |
| Filling method | Spoon gently compact | Ensure even distribution |
Baking the Mushrooms
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the oven on the middle rack.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the filling is golden brown and bubbly.
- For extra crunch, switch to broil mode during the last 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack for 5 minutes to set.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
With these steps, our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms will come out rich, cheesy, and bursting with savory seafood flavor, making them a show-stopping appetizer every time.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms experience, we can pair them with complementary dishes and beverages that enhance their rich, savory flavors. Here are some expert serving suggestions to make our appetizer shine:
Pairing with Side Dishes
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy texture and richness of the stuffed mushrooms.
- Garlic Butter Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus in garlic butter adds a vibrant vegetable side with subtle garlicky notes.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice pilaf introduces earthy flavors and fluffy texture that complements the cheesy lobster filling.
Beverage Recommendations
| Beverage Type | Suggested Pairings | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay | Crisp, refreshing acidity |
| Sparkling Wine | Brut Champagne, Prosecco | Light, effervescent balance |
| Cocktails | Classic Martini, Light Gin & Tonic | Clean, botanical flavors |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling Water with Lemon, Iced Tea | Refreshing and palate-cleansing |
Serving Temperature & Presentation Tips
- Serve the stuffed mushrooms warm for the best texture and flavor experience. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, releasing enticing aromas.
- Arrange the mushrooms on a large serving platter garnished with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges to add brightness and color contrast.
- For an elegant touch, serve each mushroom on individual appetizer spoons or small plates, especially at formal gatherings.
“A well-considered presentation and pairing will transform our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms from a delightful appetizer into an unforgettable culinary highlight.”
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure each bite of our stuffed mushrooms is perfectly complemented and enjoyed to its fullest potential.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms stay fresh and flavorful, proper storage and make-ahead planning are essential. Follow these detailed guidelines to keep the dish perfect for serving anytime.
Storing Cooked Stuffed Mushrooms
- Let the mushrooms cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in a single layer to avoid crushing.
- Refrigerate promptly; they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore their golden texture and maintain the filling’s creamy richness.
Freezing Tips for Extended Storage
- For longer storage, freeze the stuffed mushrooms before baking to preserve freshness.
- Arrange raw stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid to prevent sticking.
- Transfer frozen pieces to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Label and date the package for easy reference; use within 1 month for best quality.
- To bake from frozen, increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container refrigerated.
- Hollow and clean mushroom caps and store separately in a paper towel–lined container to absorb moisture.
- Assemble and stuff mushrooms just before baking to ensure the mushroom caps remain firm and do not release excess water.
Quick Reference: Storage and Make-Ahead Guide
| Step | Method | Timeframe | Temperature/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool cooked mushrooms | Room temperature before storing | 30 min | Prevent condensation |
| Refrigerate cooked mushrooms | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Reheat at 350°F (175°C) |
| Freeze raw stuffed mushrooms | Freeze on tray, then store airtight | Up to 1 month | Bake at 375°F (190°C), 20-25 min |
| Prep filling in advance | Store in airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 2 days | Keep chilled |
| Prep mushroom caps in advance | Store cleaned caps in paper towel-lined container | Up to 2 days | Absorbs moisture |
“Proper storage and make-ahead steps allow us to savor the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors of Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms anytime with minimal effort.“
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we guarantee each bite remains just as enticing as when freshly prepared.
Conclusion
Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms offer a perfect blend of rich seafood flavor and cheesy goodness that’s sure to impress. They’re straightforward to make yet elegant enough for any occasion. With the right prep and presentation, these appetizers become a memorable part of any meal or gathering.
By keeping a few storage and make-ahead tips in mind, we can enjoy these delicious bites anytime without sacrificing freshness or flavor. Whether served warm on a platter or as individual treats, they’re guaranteed to delight every palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Red Lobster stuffed mushrooms?
You need large white or cremini mushrooms, lobster meat, cream cheese, shredded cheeses, garlic, green onions, parsley, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
What equipment is essential to prepare these stuffed mushrooms?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, cutting board, spoon or scoop, baking sheet, parchment paper, oven, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the mushrooms for stuffing?
Select firm caps, clean them gently, remove stems, and hollow out the centers to make space for the filling.
What makes the filling rich and flavorful?
The filling combines fresh lobster, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic, green onions, mushroom stems, parsley, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and seasonings for a savory, cheesy blend.
How should I bake the stuffed mushrooms?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For extra crunch, broil for the last two minutes.
Can I prepare the stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and clean mushrooms in advance, then stuff and bake them when ready to serve.
How should I store leftover stuffed mushrooms?
Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Raw stuffed mushrooms can be frozen for longer storage.
What are good serving suggestions with Red Lobster stuffed mushrooms?
Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic butter asparagus, or wild rice pilaf. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
What drinks pair well with this appetizer?
White wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, sparkling wines such as Brut Champagne, classic martinis, or sparkling water with lemon complement the flavors beautifully.
Is using a food processor recommended for the filling?
A food processor helps achieve a smoother filling but avoid over-processing to keep a slightly chunky texture.