Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms, savory sausage, and fresh spinach, topped with gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. The combination of textures and flavors makes these mushrooms a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is quick to whip up.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of Italian sausage, spinach, and herbs creates a mouthwatering filling that your taste buds will love.
• Versatile Dish: These stuffed mushrooms can serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, these grilled mushrooms offer a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve them hot off the grill for an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for preparing Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Heavy frying pan
• Wooden cutting board
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and adds that delicious smoky flavor to your mushrooms.
• Heavy frying pan: Perfect for browning the sausage and sautéing the onions without sticking.
• Spatula: Useful for breaking apart the sausage while cooking and flipping the mushrooms on the grill.

Ingredients

For the Mushrooms

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms (get the biggest ones you can find)

For the Filling

• 16 oz. mild or hot Italian sausage (see notes)
• 2 T olive oil, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp. minced garlic

For the Sauce

• 3/4 cup Rao’s Pasta Sauce (see notes)
• pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Greens

• 8 oz. coarsely chopped spinach leaves (see notes)
• 2 T chopped fresh basil (probably optional, but recommended)
• 2 T chopped fresh parsley (probably optional, but recommended)

For Topping

• 1/2 + 1/2 cup grated Mozzarella

How to Make Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to high heat. This ensures that the mushrooms get a nice char while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

• Heat a small amount of olive oil in a heavy frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes. Break it apart using a spatula as it cooks until browned.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once browned:
1. Transfer the sausage to a bowl.
2. If necessary, add more olive oil to the pan.
3. Sauté finely chopped onions until they start to soften (about 2 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until onions are slightly browned.

Step 4: Combine Sausage Mixture

Return the cooked sausage back into the pan:
1. Stir in red pepper flakes and pasta sauce.
2. Simmer for 2-3 minutes while you chop your spinach.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Add coarsely chopped spinach:
– Let it wilt in the mixture while stirring for even distribution.
– Turn off heat after spinach is cooked down.

Step 6: Mix with Cheese and Herbs

Stir in:
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese,
– Chopped basil,
– Chopped parsley into your filling mixture.

Step 7: Prepare Mushrooms

Remove stems from each mushroom cap carefully:
– Optionally scrape out brown gills if desired.
– Brush both sides of each mushroom with olive oil.

Step 8: Grill Mushrooms

Place mushrooms on grilling pan or directly on grill inside facing down:
– Cook for about 4 minutes until slightly browned and softened.

Step 9: Stuff Mushrooms

Once grilled:
1. Remove them carefully from grill onto a wooden cutting board.
2. Stuff each mushroom cap with your sausage/spinach/cheese mixture.
3. Top with about 2 tablespoons of grated mozzarella cheese.

Step 10: Finish Grilling

Return stuffed mushrooms back onto grilling pan or grill with stuffing facing up:
– Cover grill and cook for about 5 minutes until cooked through—cheese should be melted and slightly browned.

Step 11: Serve

Remove from grill once done cooking:
– Serve immediately while hot!

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms!

How to Serve Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or preparing a cozy dinner, these mushrooms offer flexibility in serving. Here are some delicious serving ideas to enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the stuffed mushrooms hot off the grill as a hearty main dish. Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place each stuffed mushroom on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for added flavor and freshness.

With Garlic Bread

• Accompany the mushrooms with toasted garlic bread. The crunchy texture complements the soft filling beautifully.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or feta on top before serving. This adds another layer of flavor.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate that complements the richness of the stuffed mushrooms.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a platter with various grilled vegetables, dips, and your stuffed mushrooms. This makes for an excellent sharing option at gatherings.

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How to Perfect Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

To ensure your Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Select firm and plump portobello mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each mushroom enough space on the grill. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Preheat the Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the mushrooms on it. A good sear enhances flavor.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh herbs to elevate your stuffing’s flavor profile.
• Watch Cooking Times: Keep an eye on your mushrooms while grilling to avoid overcooking. They should be tender but not mushy.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix up the stuffing ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish well.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the rich flavors of the mushrooms.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf brings a healthy grain option that pairs well with stuffed mushrooms.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffed mushrooms.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds vibrant color and complements the earthy flavors of portobellos.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled alongside offers a delightful sweetness that enhances the overall meal.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Creamy baked sweet potatoes provide comfort and pair nicely with savory fillings.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for dipping in sauces alongside the mushrooms.
8. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and feta adds Mediterranean flair to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overcooking the mushrooms: Cooking the mushrooms too long can lead to a soggy texture. Grill them just until they soften and are slightly browned.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season the stuffing can make your dish bland. Use enough herbs and spices for vibrant flavors.
• Using small mushrooms: Choosing smaller Portobello mushrooms can result in insufficient stuffing. Opt for large ones for better filling capacity.
• Skipping the oil: Not brushing the mushrooms with olive oil can cause sticking and dryness. Make sure to coat them evenly before grilling.
• Packing too tightly: Overstuffing the mushrooms may cause them to burst during grilling. Fill them generously but leave some space on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

• Place the cooled mushrooms in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place mushrooms on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a little olive oil. Cook mushrooms for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheeses like feta or goat cheese for different flavors.

How do I clean Portobello mushrooms?

Wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel instead of rinsing under water, as this can make them soggy.

Can I make these stuffed mushrooms vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or use more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

What can I serve with Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms?

These stuffed mushrooms pair well with salads, pasta dishes, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How long do grilled stuffed portobello mushrooms take to cook?

They typically take about 9-10 minutes total on the grill—4 minutes initially and another 5 minutes after stuffing.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are not only packed with delicious flavors but also versatile enough to cater to different dietary preferences. Feel free to customize these hearty treats by adding your favorite veggies or changing up the spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an impressive dish right from your grill!