Description
These spooky stuffed mushroom eyeballs are a fun and delicious appetizer perfect for Halloween parties or any themed gathering. They are surprisingly easy to make and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, stems removed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Stuff the mushroom caps generously with the cream cheese mixture.
- In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the stuffed mushrooms.
- Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- While the mushrooms are baking, prepare the “eyeball” details. For the irises, place a chopped black olive in the center of each mushroom. For the “veins” or “bloodshot” effect, use small pieces of chopped red bell pepper to create lines radiating from the olive.
- Once the mushrooms are baked, carefully place the olive and red bell pepper pieces onto the hot cream cheese to adhere.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
- You can substitute other herbs like dill or basil for parsley and chives.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though the texture will be slightly different.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American