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These stuffed mushrooms made in the air fryer work great as a party starter or tasty bite. Brown crimini mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful blend of cheeses, bright peppers, and fresh herbs turn beautifully crisp and juicy when air fried.
Key Ingredients
- Crimini mushrooms: Try to find ones roughly 2 inches across
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: They bring creaminess and rich flavor
- Diced bell peppers and onions: For a bit of texture and sweetness
- Leafy herbs: Try some parsley or cilantro
- Basic spices: Just salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika
How To Make Them
- 1. Ready Your Mushrooms:
- Brush dirt off mushrooms (don't run under water). Gently pull stems out with a twist. Push sides down to create more room. Mix with olive oil, balsamic, salt and pepper.
- 2. Prepare Your Stuffing:
- Chop veggies into tiny pieces. Combine with shredded cheeses. Throw in herbs and spices. Sample and add more salt if needed.
- 3. Load Your Mushrooms:
- Fill each cap with your mixture. Push down firmly but don't pile too high. Keep edges clear. Set aside on plate as you work.
- 4. Time to Cook:
- Set air fryer to 320°F. Arrange mushrooms in basket. Give them some breathing room. Cook for 9-10 minutes until tops look golden. Take a peek halfway.
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Fixing Common Problems
- Got wet mushrooms? Make sure they're completely dry after cleaning
- Stuffing keeps dropping? Press it in more tightly
- Not getting golden? Cook them a minute or two longer
- Too much liquid? Skip juicy veggies like tomatoes in your mix
Keeping Leftovers
- Store in fridge for up to 4 days
- Warm back up in air fryer for 2-3 minutes
- A quick zap in the microwave works too - about 45 seconds
- Don't try freezing them - they'll turn mushy
Prep Ahead Tips
- Get mushrooms cleaned and ready early
- Mix your filling a day before
- Wait until cooking time to fill them
- They taste best right from the air fryer
Whenever I bring these mushrooms to gatherings, they're gone in minutes and everyone wants to know how I made them. They're simple enough for a personal snack but fancy enough when company drops by.
Tasty Twists To Explore
- Try Italian Flavors: Use Italian herbs, swap in basil, mix in sun-dried tomatoes, finish with extra Parmesan on top
- Make Them Mediterranean: Add crumbled feta, mix in chopped olives, use oregano and dill, finish with a squeeze of lemon
- Spice Things Up: Toss in chopped jalapeños, dust with red pepper flakes, add a pinch of cayenne, use pepper jack instead
- Go Upscale: Add lump crab meat, include bits of shrimp, use premium herbs, finish with a drizzle of truffle oil
Great Serving Ideas
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine
- Serve next to a simple green salad
- Include on a party snack board
- Eat with chunks of fresh bread
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Leftover Magic
- Cut up extras for morning eggs
- Toss into hot pasta
- Scatter over your lunch salad
- Stir into cooked grains like rice
These yummy bites can be changed up so many ways once you know the basics. Try different cheese combos or herb mixes. They're also great for planning meals ahead since they warm up so well.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why is washing mushrooms with water a bad idea?
- Mushrooms soak up water like a sponge, which can ruin their texture. It's better to clean them gently with a damp cloth.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
- You can stuff and prep them the day before. Just pop them in the fridge covered, and air fry when needed.
- → What’s a good cheese swap?
- Mozzarella is great, but you can also try cheddar, monterey jack, or even a mix of your favorite melting cheeses.
- → How do I know they’re ready?
- The mushrooms should look dark and soft, and the cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- → How can I make them hotter?
- Up the jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Spicy chili powder works too!