Introduction
Game day is all about gathering with friends, sharing excitement, and indulging in delicious snacks that keep everyone fueled and happy. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor, look no further than these Easy Air Fryer Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms!
These bite-sized delights are not only bursting with savory goodness but also offer a satisfying crunch, thanks to the air fryer magic. The earthy, meaty flavor of the mushrooms complements the rich, melty cheddar filling beautifully. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or simply enjoying a casual get-together, these stuffed mushrooms will surely steal the show.
With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending the entire day in the kitchen. Plus, using the air fryer keeps them crispy and reduces cooking time, so you can whip up a batch in no time. Get ready to serve up some game day bliss with these delectable, cheesy bites!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large portobello or cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
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- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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- Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Remove the stems and set aside the caps.
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- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until you have a creamy mixture.
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- Using a spoon, generously fill each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture. Ensure they are well-packed and slightly mounded on top for extra cheese goodness.
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- Lightly brush the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil for a crispy finish.
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- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
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- Air fry the mushrooms for about 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.
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- Carefully remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy these delicious cheesy bites as a perfect game day snack!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Fresh Mushrooms: Large portobello or cremini mushrooms work best for stuffing.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses for extra depth.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or panko breadcrumbs for added crunch and texture.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese helps bind the filling and adds creaminess.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; garlic powder can also be used.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that crispy exterior.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling to taste.
- Optional Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
With these key ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious, cheesy stuffed mushrooms in no time, perfect for game day or any gathering!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your mushrooms will cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Remove the stems and carefully hollow out the insides using a small spoon or a melon baller. Be sure to leave enough flesh around the edges to maintain their shape.
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Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine your favorite cheddar cheese (shredded), cream cheese (softened), minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, creating a creamy filling.
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Stuff the Mushrooms: Using a small spoon, fill each mushroom cap generously with the cheddar mixture. Pack it in well, as it will melt and create a deliciously gooey center.
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Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the stuffed mushrooms in a single layer in the basket, ensuring there’s enough space between each one for proper air circulation.
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Air Fry the Mushrooms: Cook the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be golden brown and crispy on top.
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Check for Doneness: Once the mushrooms are cooked, check that the cheese is melted and bubbling. If you prefer an extra crispy top, you can turn the air fryer to a broil setting for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to let them burn.
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Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These delicious, cheesy bites are perfect as game day snacks or appetizers for any occasion!
Enjoy your crispy air-fried cheddar-stuffed mushrooms with your favorite dipping sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top!
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Air Fryer Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms make a fantastic appetizer for any game day gathering or social event. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your presentation and flavor:
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the stuffed mushrooms right before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
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Pair with Dips: Serve alongside a selection of dips such as creamy ranch, zesty marinara, or a tangy garlic aioli for added versatility and flavor profiles.
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Serve with Toothpicks: Skewer each mushroom with a toothpick for easy picking. This makes them perfect for mingling guests who need one-hand snacks.
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Crispy Bacon Bits: Top your mushrooms with crispy crumbled bacon before air frying them. The smoky flavor complements the cheese beautifully.
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Accompany with a Salad: For a heartier setup, serve the mushrooms over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette. This creates a beautiful presentation and balances the richness of the mushrooms.
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Tasty Cheese Pairings: Consider serving the mushrooms with other cheesy bites like cheese curds or mozzarella sticks to create a cohesive cheese-centric platter.
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Craft a Platter: Arrange these stuffed mushrooms on a platter with an assortment of other appetizers such as mini sliders, spinach and artichoke dip, and vegetable sticks. It will make for an impressive display that caters to various tastes.
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Garnish with Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, set out a variety of hot sauces alongside the mushrooms for guests to drizzle on top according to their spice preference.
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Include Some Sides: Pair these mushrooms with some crunchy vegetable sticks to provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the cheese.
These Easy Air Fryer Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms are versatile and can complement a variety of other flavors and dishes, making them an ideal offering for any gathering. Enjoy!
Conclusion
These Easy Air Fryer Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect addition to your game day spread! With their crispy exterior and melty, cheesy filling, these little bites are sure to be a hit among your family and friends. Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they also offer a delightful combination of flavors that can elevate any gathering.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices to make this recipe your own! Whether you’re serving them up as a pre-game snack or a party appetizer, these mushrooms will keep everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the game, and happy snacking!
