Craving a taste of Red Lobster’s famous crab stuffed mushrooms? We’ve got you covered with a recipe that brings that irresistible appetizer right into our kitchen. These mushrooms are loaded with a creamy crab filling that’s bursting with flavor, making them perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
To recreate the irresistible Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, we’ll need fresh and high-quality ingredients that bring out the authentic creamy crab flavor and tender mushroom texture. Below is a detailed list organized by stuffing, mushrooms, and optional garnishes to customize your dish.
Crab Stuffing Ingredients
We use a blend of savory and creamy components to achieve the classic crab stuffed filling that makes these mushrooms unforgettable:
- 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mushroom Ingredients
We choose mushrooms that are firm and large enough to hold a generous amount of crab stuffing:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep |
|---|---|---|
| White button mushrooms | 20 large | Stems removed and cleaned |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For brushing |
| Salt | to taste | For seasoning |
Optional Garnishes
- Finely chopped fresh parsley (for a pop of color)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- A sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika (for mild heat and color)
- Lemon wedges (served alongside for fresh zest)
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, having the right equipment is essential. We ensure each step flows smoothly by preparing the following tools:
- Mixing Bowls
Use medium and small-sized bowls to combine the crab filling ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings guarantee consistent flavor every time.
- Spoon or Small Spatula
For mixing the stuffing and carefully filling the mushrooms.
- Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Dish
A rimmed baking sheet works best for even baking and easy cleanup. Alternatively, an oven-safe dish will hold the mushrooms securely.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Line the baking sheet to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the finished mushrooms.
- Knife and Cutting Board
Essential for cleaning and prepping the mushrooms, including removing stems and dicing if needed.
- Small Bowl or Plate for Garnish
Keep garnishes like extra Parmesan, paprika, or parsley ready for a beautiful presentation.
Equipment Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine and mix stuffing ingredients | Use multiple bowls for convenience |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely | Essential for flavor balance |
| Spoon/Small Spatula | Mix and stuff mushrooms | Use a small spatula for precision filling |
| Baking Sheet/Dish | Bake mushrooms evenly | Preferably rimmed for easy handling |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevent sticking | Helps with easy mushroom removal |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Prep mushrooms | Remove stems and clean thoroughly |
| Small Bowl/Plate | Organize garnishes | For clean and appealing finishing touches |
Having these tools ready ensures our crab stuffed mushrooms recipe runs without hiccups, making the cooking process enjoyable and efficient.
Prep Work
Before diving into the assembly of our Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, proper preparation is key to achieving that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Let’s get started by prepping our mushrooms and crab stuffing thoroughly.
Cleaning and Preparing Mushrooms
We begin by selecting fresh large white or cremini mushrooms with firm caps and intact stems. To clean them properly:
- Gently wipe each mushroom cap and stem with a damp paper towel or use a soft mushroom brush to remove dirt without soaking them.
- Avoid rinsing under water as mushrooms absorb moisture which can make them soggy during baking.
- Once cleaned, carefully twist and pull out the stems to hollow out the caps, creating space for our flavorful crab stuffing.
- Chop the stems finely and set them aside; they add an earthy depth when mixed with the crab filling.
- Arrange the mushroom caps cap-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them stable while stuffing.
Preparing the Crab Stuffing
The stuffing is the heart of our dish combining creamy, tangy, and savory elements. Here’s how we prepare it step-by-step:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of cream cheese (softened) with ¼ cup mayonnaise to create a smooth base.
- Add 1 cup lump crab meat, ensuring to check for and remove any cartilage or shell fragments.
- Incorporate the finely chopped mushroom stems from earlier to integrate the earthy mushroom flavor.
- Mix in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese along with 1 tsp Dijon mustard, ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp paprika.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir all ingredients with a spoon or small spatula until we achieve a creamy, well-blended consistency ready to fill the mushroom caps.
Here is a clear overview of the key ingredients and their amounts for the stuffing:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese (softened) | 8 ounces |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup |
| Lump Crab Meat | 1 cup |
| Mushroom Stems (chopped) | From 12 mushrooms |
| Parmesan Cheese (grated) | ¼ cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Worcestershire Sauce | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
This preparation ensures our Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms have a flavorful, creamy crab filling that balances perfectly with the tender mushroom caps.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to prepare our Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms perfectly. Each stage highlights precision and flavor to recreate that iconic taste.
Making the Crab Stuffing Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 oz cream cheese (softened) and 2 tablespoons mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in 1 cup lump crab meat, ensuring you remove any shell fragments beforehand.
- Add the chopped mushroom stems (about ½ cup) to the mixture for extra texture.
- Sprinkle in the dry ingredients:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Mix all ingredients gently but thoroughly until well combined and spreadable.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz | Base for creamy filling |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp | Adds moisture and richness |
| Lump Crab Meat | 1 cup | Primary flavor component |
| Mushroom Stems (chopped) | ½ cup | Texture and flavor boost |
| Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup grated | Adds savory depth |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tsp | Tangy flavor enhancer |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tsp | Umami booster |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Aromatic seasoning |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Mild smokiness |
Stuffing the Mushrooms
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a small spoon or spatula, carefully spoon the crab stuffing mixture into each mushroom cap.
- Fill each mushroom generously but avoid overstuffing to prevent filling from spilling over.
- Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking.
- Optionally, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top of each mushroom for a golden crust.
Baking the Stuffed Mushrooms
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden and bubbly.
- Halfway through baking add a light dusting of paprika for color and subtle flavor if desired.
- Remove from oven carefully and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a touch of brightness.
Serving Suggestions
To serve our Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms with maximum appeal we recommend these thoughtful pairing and presentation tips:
- Plating: Arrange the stuffed mushrooms neatly on a large platter. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese over the top for vibrant color and a savory finish.
Pair the dish with light sides to balance the rich crab filling. Consider a crisp garden salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus spears with a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt.
- Dips and Sauces:
Offer a small bowl of lemon aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce alongside to elevate the savory crab flavor.
- Beverage Pairing:
Serve chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Sparkling water with lemon wedges also complements the dish well.
- Serving Temperature:
For best taste, serve the stuffed mushrooms warm, right out of the oven. This ensures the cream cheese filling remains creamy and the mushroom caps retain their tender texture.
- Portion Size:
Plan for 3-4 stuffed mushrooms per person as an appetizer. For larger gatherings, prepare accordingly to accommodate appetite.
| Component | Suggested Pairing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Platter garnish | Fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese | Enhance visual appeal and flavor |
| Side dishes | Garden salad, roasted asparagus | Provide freshness and balance richness |
| Dips & sauces | Lemon aioli, cocktail sauce | Add complementary tangy flavors |
| Beverages | Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling water | Elevate and refresh palate |
| Serving temp & size | Warm, 3-4 pieces per guest | Optimal flavor and portion control |
As we serve these crab stuffed mushrooms, keeping these suggestions in mind helps us create a well-rounded appetizer experience that highlights the creamy crab filling and tender mushrooms perfectly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy the best flavor and convenience when preparing Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, we recommend the following make-ahead steps. These instructions allow you to prepare the dish in advance without sacrificing taste or texture.
Preparing the Stuffing Ahead of Time
- Combine the stuffing ingredients as detailed in the recipe: lump crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, chopped mushroom stems, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the creamy texture.
Cleaning and Prepping Mushrooms Early
- We suggest cleaning and hulling the mushroom caps up to 12 hours in advance.
- Avoid washing the mushrooms with water to prevent sogginess. Instead, use a damp cloth or paper towel.
- Store the prepped mushroom caps in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap within the fridge.
Assembling the Mushrooms Before Baking
- Fill the mushroom caps with the chilled crab stuffing up to 4 hours before baking for the freshest presentation.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a lined baking sheet.
- Cover lightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, and keep refrigerated.
Baking and Serving
- When ready to bake, remove the stuffed mushrooms from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to the specified temperature in the recipe.
- Bake until golden and bubbly per our baking instructions.
| Step | Time Frame | Storage Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare crab stuffing | Up to 24 hours before | Airtight container in refrigerator |
| Clean and hull mushrooms | Up to 12 hours before | Sealed container or wrapped in fridge |
| Stuff mushrooms | Up to 4 hours before baking | Covered lightly in refrigerator |
“Pro Tip: Bringing the stuffed mushrooms to room temperature before baking promotes even cooking and maximizes flavor.”
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions we can streamline the cooking process while maintaining the rich flavors and creamy texture that make Red Lobster Crab Stuffed Mushrooms a favorite.
Conclusion
Crafting Red Lobster’s crab stuffed mushrooms at home brings a touch of elegance and flavor to any occasion. With the right ingredients and a bit of prep, we can easily recreate this creamy, savory appetizer that impresses every time.
Whether for a casual get-together or a special celebration, these stuffed mushrooms offer a delicious way to elevate our menu. Let’s enjoy the process and the delightful results that come with making this crowd-pleasing recipe our own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Red Lobster’s crab stuffed mushrooms?
You’ll need lump crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, fresh mushrooms (preferably white or cremini), and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Optional garnishes include parsley, extra Parmesan, paprika, and lemon wedges.
How should I prepare the mushrooms for stuffing?
Clean mushrooms by wiping them gently with a damp cloth or paper towel instead of rinsing to prevent sogginess. Remove stems carefully to create space for the filling.
What equipment do I need to make crab stuffed mushrooms?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, a spoon or spatula for stuffing, a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, a knife, and a cutting board.
Can I make crab stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and clean the mushrooms in advance. Assemble them before baking and bring to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
How should crab stuffed mushrooms be served?
Serve them warm on a large platter garnished with parsley, lemon wedges, and extra Parmesan. Pair with light sides or dips and plan for about 3-4 mushrooms per person.
What is the best way to bake crab stuffed mushrooms?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.