I’m so excited to share this Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe with you! These little bites are bursting with creamy goat cheese, caramelized shallots, and fresh herbs that make every mouthful pure magic.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Honestly, I could snack on these stuffed mushrooms all day long. They’re elegant enough for a special occasion but so simple that you can whip them up any time you want to impress your guests or just yourself.
- Rich, savory flavor: The combination of Irish cheddar, goat cheese, and caramelized shallots creates a melty, tangy filling you’ll crave.
- Perfect party appetizer: Makes about 30 stuffed mushrooms — just right for sharing at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
- Simple prep: With straightforward ingredients and an easy baking method, this recipe is approachable for cooks at any level.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A satisfying bite that’s packed with flavor without any meat.
Ingredients & Why They Work
When you’re gathering ingredients for this recipe, fresh and quality items really make a difference. Look for firm white button mushrooms and fresh herbs to brighten the filling. Oh, and don’t skimp on the goat cheese — it’s the secret to that creamy texture.
- Olive oil: Used in stages, it adds moisture and helps caramelize shallots for richness.
- Shallots: Their mild sweetness deepens the filling’s flavor when caramelized.
- White cooking wine: Adds subtle acidity and helps lift the shallot flavors—perfect balance.
- White button mushrooms: The star of the show, sturdy yet tender enough to hold the filling.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so don’t forget it!
- Goat cheese: Creates that creamy, tangy filling that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
- Lemon juice and zest: Brighten the dish with fresh citrus notes to cut through the richness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds subtle umami depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Black pepper: A gentle spice to round out the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Gives a mild garlic undertone enhancing the savory profile.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley, thyme, or chives bring fresh, green bursts that brighten every bite.
- Pine nuts: Toasted for crunch and a nutty sweetness that adds texture contrast.
- Panko breadcrumbs: They help bind the filling and add a delicate crispness when baked.
Make It Your Way
One of the best parts about the Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is how easily you can tailor it to fit your taste buds or the occasion. Whether you want to add a spicy kick or make it a little creamier, there’s plenty of room to experiment and make this appetizer your own.
- Herb Variations: I’ve tried swapping the parsley and chives for fresh dill or tarragon—both bring a unique brightness that pairs beautifully with the goat cheese and pine nuts.
- Wine Substitutes: On days when I’m out of cooking wine, using white grape juice works like a charm to keep the caramelized shallots deliciously moist without overpowering the flavors.
- Nut Allergies: If pine nuts aren’t your thing, toasted chopped walnuts or pecans are fantastic alternatives that add a lovely crunch.
- Cheese Swap: Though this recipe shines with Irish cheddar mixed into the filling, I sometimes use cream cheese for a richer, smoother texture—it’s all about what you prefer!
Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by moving your oven rack to the upper-middle position. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Having the oven properly heated ensures the mushrooms bake evenly and the filling gets beautifully golden on top. While it warms up, lightly spray your 9×13-inch or any 3-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks during baking.
Step 2: Caramelize Shallots for That Sweet Depth
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and stir frequently. Watch carefully as they soften and turn golden—this takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Once caramelized, pour in the white cooking wine. Keep cooking until the liquid has fully evaporated, which usually takes 3 to 5 minutes. This step adds a subtle sweetness that really makes the filling pop.
Step 3: Prepare the Mushrooms
While your shallots caramelize, give your white button mushrooms a quick rinse and pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully remove and discard the stems—this gives you those perfect little cups to hold all the flavorful filling. Place the mushroom caps on your prepared baking dish, then generously brush each one with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. A light sprinkle of salt on top helps bring out their natural earthy flavor.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a small bowl, combine the warm caramelized shallots with the softened goat cheese, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, toasted pine nuts, and panko breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and fully combined. You’ll want this filling to have a perfect balance of tanginess, nuttiness, and herby freshness.
Step 5: Fill and Dress the Mushrooms
Using a heaping teaspoon, scoop and mound the filling into each mushroom cap. Press gently to make sure each mushroom is well stuffed but not overflowing. Then, brush the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil—this small touch keeps them moist and adds a wonderful golden finish once baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake the stuffed mushrooms for 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are nicely browned and the cheese filling is heated through and bubbly. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the mushrooms cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle extra chopped fresh herbs, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts on top for a beautiful and fresh finish. These little details elevate the mushrooms into a stunning appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.
Top Tip
These tips will help ensure your Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms turn out perfectly every time – packed with rich flavor, a beautiful golden finish, and just the right texture.
- Perfect Shallot Caramelization: Take your time gently cooking the shallots over medium heat until they're golden and soft; rushing this step can lead to burnt shallots and an off taste.
- Dry Your Mushrooms Well: Pat the mushrooms completely dry before oiling and stuffing to prevent excess moisture, which can make them soggy during baking.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Don’t skip brushing the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil – it adds moisture and helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- Even Filling Distribution: Use a small spoon or even a piping bag to fill the mushrooms evenly and neatly for an elegant presentation.
How to Serve Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
These stuffed mushrooms look and taste fantastic garnished with a little extra lemon zest for a fresh brightness, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and aroma, plus some toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch that complements the creamy goat cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms with a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, crusty artisan bread to soak up any delicious juices, or a bowl of creamy Irish potato soup to keep with the Irish theme. These mushrooms also shine as party appetizers alongside a charcuterie board featuring cured meats and pickles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, allow the mushrooms to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the filling fresh and the mushrooms tender without getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked stuffed mushrooms for up to 2 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time at 400°F.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the filling creamy and the mushroom caps from becoming overly soft.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a lovely tang, you can substitute with cream cheese, ricotta, or even Irish cheddar to keep with the recipe’s flavors.
If you prefer not to use white cooking wine, chicken broth or white grape juice make great alternatives that provide similar moisture and flavor depth.
Make sure to pat mushrooms completely dry before stuffing and don’t overcrowd them on your baking dish so steam can escape during cooking.
Yes! You can stuff the mushrooms a day ahead and refrigerate them covered. When ready, just brush with olive oil and bake as directed for fresh, warm bites.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something comforting and elegant about these Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms that makes them a real crowd-pleaser. From the creamy goat cheese and fragrant herbs to the bright notes of lemon zest, every bite feels special. Whether you're preparing a casual snack or impressing guests at a party, these mushrooms are sure to bring a smile to your table. Enjoy making (and sharing) this delicious, savory treat – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms are a savory appetizer featuring tender white button mushrooms filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese, caramelized shallots, fresh herbs, and toasted pine nuts. Baked until golden and garnished with lemon zest and extra pine nuts, they make an elegant and flavorful starter perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, separated
- 1 small shallot, diced small
- ¼ cup white cooking wine
- 1 pound white button mushrooms
- Salt, to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1 Tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives)
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
For Garnish
- Lemon zest
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Move the oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the mushrooms.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish or any 3-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Caramelize Shallots: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add diced shallots and cook, stirring often, until softened and golden, about 7 to 8 minutes. Pour in the white cooking wine and cook until the liquid evaporates completely, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Prepare Mushrooms: Rinse the white button mushrooms and pat dry with paper towels. Carefully remove and discard the stems from each mushroom. Place the mushroom caps on the prepared baking dish and brush them all over with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Lightly sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine the caramelized shallots, softened goat cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, toasted pine nuts, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix well until the filling is creamy and completely combined.
- Stuff Mushrooms: Using a heaping teaspoon, fill each mushroom cap with the prepared cheese and shallot mixture, pressing slightly to mound the filling.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil for extra moisture and flavor.
- Bake Mushrooms: Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the tops are nicely browned and the filling is heated through.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the mushrooms from the oven and cool slightly for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts before serving.
Notes
- This recipe makes about 30 stuffed mushrooms, perfect for a party appetizer or small gathering.
- If you prefer not to use white cooking wine, substitute with chicken broth or white grape juice for a similar flavor.
- For the fresh herbs, parsley, thyme, or chives work beautifully in this recipe.
- To toast pine nuts, lightly fry them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Use a small spoon or piping bag to stuff mushrooms evenly and neatly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mushrooms
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
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