Pizza stuffed portobello mushrooms offer a healthier, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza without sacrificing any of the flavors.
This mouthwatering dish serves as a fantastic appetizer, a delightful main course, or even a fun addition to your next gathering. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring the pizzeria to your kitchen.
You Will Need
To make four servings of pizza stuffed portobello mushrooms, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How To Make Pizza Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the mushrooms.
Prepare the Mushroom Caps
Begin by cleaning the portobello mushroom caps. Gently wipe them with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Next, use a spoon to carefully scrape out the gills from the underside of each mushroom. Removing the gills not only creates more space for the stuffing but also prevents the mushrooms from becoming too watery during cooking.
Marinate the Mushrooms
Place the cleaned mushroom caps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over both sides of the mushrooms. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes. This step enhances the mushrooms’ flavor and helps them cook evenly.
Prepare the Filling
While the mushrooms marinate, gather all your pizza toppings. In a medium bowl, mix the pizza sauce with dried oregano. This extra seasoning gives the sauce an added depth of flavor. If you’re using homemade pizza sauce, adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Assemble the Stuffed Mushrooms
After the mushrooms have marinated, start assembling them. Spoon about two tablespoons of pizza sauce into each mushroom cap, spreading it evenly. Follow this with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese acts as a base that helps hold the toppings in place.
Add the Toppings
Now comes the fun part — adding the toppings! Distribute the pepperoni slices, black olives, chopped bell peppers, and red onions evenly among the mushroom caps. Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add cooked sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or any of your favorite pizza toppings. Just ensure not to overfill the mushrooms, as this can make them difficult to eat.
Top with More Cheese
Once you’ve added the toppings, sprinkle a bit more shredded mozzarella cheese and a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese over each mushroom. The extra cheese not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful, melty top layer.
Bake the Mushrooms
Place the baking sheet with the stuffed mushrooms in the preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Garnish and Serve
After baking, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. The fresh basil adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby flavor that complements the rich, cheesy filling.
Enjoy!
Serve the pizza stuffed portobello mushrooms immediately. They pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a light pasta dish. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or an appetizer, these mushrooms are sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips and Variations
While mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for different flavor profiles.
Here are some other options you can consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and add more vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
- Vegan Version: Use a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your pizza sauce is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the toppings.
- Storage: Leftover stuffed mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Conclusion
Pizza stuffed portobello mushrooms combine the best of both worlds — savory pizza flavors with the earthy richness of mushrooms.
This recipe offers a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional pizza while still satisfying your cravings.
Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these stuffed mushrooms are perfect for any occasion. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, cheesy treat that everyone will love!
