Gourmet Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Fresh parsley

2 tablespoons, chopped

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Cream cheese

8 ounces, softened

Button mushrooms

24 large, stems removed

Olive oil

1 tablespoon (for drizzling)

Breadcrumbs

1/4 cup (optional, for added crunch)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully remove the stems from the button mushrooms and set aside. Ensure the caps are intact for stuffing.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
4. If you prefer added texture, you can mix in breadcrumbs to the cheese mixture.
5. Generously fill each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are filled.
6. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops for added flavor and browning.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this scrumptious appetizer with friends and family!