Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

If you’re looking for a delicious appetizer that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms. Perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy night in, these little bites are guaranteed to impress your family and friends. The air fryer ensures that the mushrooms are perfectly cooked, maintaining a juicy texture while the filling is creamy and rich. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious stuffed mushrooms that are sure to become a favorite at your gatherings!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Air fryer stuffed mushrooms combine the ease of cooking with a pop of flavor. The air fryer allows for a quicker cooking time than traditional baking methods, achieving a wonderfully cooked mushroom with a delightful crisp to the filling without all the grease. Furthermore, the combination of cream cheese, savory sausage, and melty cheeses creates a creamy, savory filling that is hard to resist. Plus, these stuffed mushrooms are versatile, suitable for various occasions, and can be customized to fit different taste preferences!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup sweet Italian sausage, cooked and cooled
• ⅓ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 16 button mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon green onion, thinly sliced

How To Make Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel to gently wipe each mushroom to remove any dirt. After cleaning, carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms and set them aside. You will need the caps to fill with your delicious stuffing!

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Use a spatula or fork to mix until smooth. Add the cooked and cooled sweet Italian sausage, ¼ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Mushrooms

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each mushroom cap generously with the creamy sausage mixture. Don’t be shy with the stuffing; you want them to really pack a punch of flavor!

Step 4: Air Fry the Stuffed Mushrooms

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, arrange the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown. About halfway through the cooking time, sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffed mushrooms for an extra cheesy topping.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, carefully remove the mushrooms from the air fryer. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and watch them disappear quickly!

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, try mixing in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the cheese mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of sweet.
• To make the prep even easier, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff the mushrooms.
• If you’re making these for a party, consider doubling the recipe—they’ll go fast!

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the sausage for cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with finely chopped spinach, artichokes, or bell peppers.
• Use different types of cheese based on your preference; mozzarella or feta can add unique flavors.
• Add some heat by mixing in a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes into the filling.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover stuffed mushrooms, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again.

FAQ

Can I make stuffed mushrooms ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed mushrooms up to a day in advance. Just fill them and store them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. If you cook them ahead of time, simply reheat in the air fryer before serving.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! While button mushrooms are great for this recipe, you can also use Cremini or Portobello mushrooms. Just keep in mind that larger mushrooms may require a longer cooking time.

What can I serve with stuffed mushrooms?

Stuffed mushrooms are perfect as an appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board.

Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

Yes! You can freeze uncooked stuffed mushrooms. Assemble them and place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, you can air fry them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful and simple appetizer that’s packed with flavor and can easily be customized to suit any palate. With a perfect balance of creamy filling and tender mushroom, they’re sure to become a staple in your collection of go-to recipes. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a weeknight snack, these stuffed mushrooms won’t disappoint. Gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to impress your taste buds with this scrumptious dish! Enjoy!