Ina Garten’s Crowd-Pleasing Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Crab stuffed mushrooms burst with ocean-inspired decadence that transforms ordinary appetizers into extraordinary bites.

These petite flavor bombs marry succulent seafood with earthy mushroom caps in a stunning culinary dance.

Creamy, rich filling nestles perfectly inside tender mushroom vessels, creating an irresistible combination.

Packed with delicate crab meat and zesty seasonings, each morsel promises a luxurious taste adventure.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly to craft an elegant starter that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

The recipe delivers restaurant-quality sophistication without demanding professional cooking skills.

Your dinner guests will be completely mesmerized by these divine little treasures that promise to steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 210 kcal

Servings: 24

Ingredients Found in Ina Garten Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Cremini Mushrooms: Choose firm, smooth caps without blemishes or dark spots.
• Olive Oil: Select cold-pressed extra virgin for richer flavor.
• Salt: Use fine sea salt for even seasoning.

• Celery: Pick crisp, bright green stalks with no wilting.
• Red Bell Pepper: Look for vibrant, glossy peppers without soft spots.
• Butter: Select unsalted for better flavor control.
• Garlic: Choose plump, firm cloves without green sprouts.

• Cream Cheese: Select full-fat version for richest texture.
• Mayonnaise: Use high-quality, smooth brand.
• Scallions: Pick bright green, fresh-looking onions.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated provides best flavor.
• Butter Crackers: Choose buttery, crisp variety.
• Fresh Parsley: Select bright green, fragrant herbs.
• Lemon: Pick heavy, bright yellow citrus with smooth skin.
• Lump Crabmeat: Ensure fresh, white meat with no discoloration.

Utensils You’ll Need for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Baking Sheet: Large, flat metal pan for roasting mushrooms.
• Damp Paper Towel: For gently cleaning mushroom caps.
• Skillet: Medium-sized pan for sautéing vegetables.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Spacious container for combining crab filling ingredients.
• Cutting Board: Surface for chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp blade for precise ingredient preparation.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise tools for accurate ingredient amounts.
• Oven: Needed for preheating, roasting, and broiling.
• Spatula or Mixing Spoon: For folding and combining ingredients.
• Grater: Used for creating parmesan cheese shreds.
• Broiler: Final step for achieving golden-brown topping.

Cooking Process for Ina Garten Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Prepare Mushroom Foundation

Clean mushroom caps carefully with a soft towel. Remove stems and arrange on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt. Preheat oven to high temperature.

• Craft Savory Vegetable Base

Heat butter in a skillet and cook chopped celery and red bell pepper until they soften. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly to enhance flavors. Let vegetables develop a rich, golden color.

• Blend Creamy Seafood Mixture

Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs in a mixing bowl. Gently fold in sautéed vegetables and tender crabmeat. Mix ingredients until they create a smooth, luxurious filling. Incorporate zesty lemon and parmesan for extra depth.

• Assemble and Bake Appetizers

Fill each mushroom cap generously with crabmeat mixture. Sprinkle crushed crackers over the top to create a crispy texture. Place in hot oven and bake until edges turn golden and filling becomes bubbly. Finish under broiler for a perfect crisp topping.

• Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let appetizers rest for a few minutes. Transfer to serving plate and garnish with fresh herbs. Offer these delectable bites while still warm for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Modifications for Ina Garten Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Maximize Mushroom Magic: Choose cremini mushrooms with firm, unblemished caps for the best texture and flavor.
• Customize Cracker Crunch: Swap butter crackers with panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free crackers to suit dietary preferences and add extra crispy texture.
• Create Seafood Swaps: Replace crabmeat with cooked shrimp, imitation crab, or diced lobster for a delightful protein variation that keeps the appetizer exciting.
• Perfect Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare mushroom base and filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing separately in airtight containers. Assemble and bake just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and crispy topping.

How to Present Crab Stuffed Mushrooms at the Table

• Pair with Zesty Wine Companions: Select crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complement the rich, creamy crab filling and enhance the delicate mushroom flavors.
• Serve with Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving to add brightness, color, and a subtle fresh note to the appetizer.
• Create Elegant Party Platter: Arrange baked stuffed mushrooms on a sleek white platter with small decorative toothpicks for easy, sophisticated finger-food presentation at cocktail parties or gatherings.
• Design Balanced Appetizer Spread: Accompany these crab-stuffed mushrooms with light salads, citrus-dressed greens, or small bruschetta to create a well-rounded and visually appealing starter selection.

Store and Reheat Ina Garten Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

• Maximize Freshness: Store cooled crab-stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the filling and clean mushrooms a day ahead to save time during party preparation. Keep components separate until ready to assemble and bake.
• Freezing Friendly: Assemble unbaked stuffed mushrooms and freeze for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Serving Suggestions: Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispy texture. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent soggy crackers and rubbery crabmeat.

Elegant Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s crab stuffed mushrooms blend rich, creamy cheese with delicate crab meat in elegant appetizer bites. Guests will savor these luxurious morsels that showcase classic coastal flavors with sophisticated simplicity.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz (226 g) lump crabmeat
• 24 large cremini mushrooms
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 4 tbsps (56 g) melted butter (divided)
• 20 butter crackers (such as Ritz)
• ½ cup (75 g) finely chopped celery
• ½ cup (75 g) finely chopped red bell pepper
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped scallions
• ¼ cup (15 g) chopped parsley
• 1 chopped garlic clove
• 2 tbsps mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated parmesan
• ¼ cup (30 g) cracker crumbs
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove mushroom stems and clean caps with a damp paper towel. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt. Arrange mushrooms on a baking sheet.
2. Cracker Coating: Crush butter crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter to create a uniform coating mixture.
3. Vegetable Foundation: Sauté celery and red bell pepper in butter over medium heat until tender. Add garlic and cook briefly to release aromatic flavors. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Crab Mixture: In a large bowl, blend cream cheese and mayonnaise. Fold in scallions, parmesan, cracker crumbs, parsley, lemon zest, and juice. Gently incorporate sautéed vegetables and lump crabmeat, maintaining a light texture.
5. Baking Process: Fill mushroom caps generously with crab mixture. Top with remaining cracker crumbs for added crispness. Bake for 12-15 minutes until heated through. Activate broiler and cook until surface turns golden brown. Rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and prevent potential burning.

Notes

• Mushroom Selection: Choose fresh, firm cremini mushrooms with intact, unblemished caps for the best texture and appearance.
• Cracker Crumb Tip: Use butter crackers for a rich, buttery flavor that complements the delicate crab meat perfectly.
• Moisture Management: Pat mushroom caps dry before oiling to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent soggy results.
• Broiling Caution: Watch carefully during the final broiling stage to achieve a golden-brown top without burning the delicate crab filling.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg