Gooey fontina cheese mixed into the fresh spinach and bacon filling makes these stuffed mushrooms both tasty and simple to prepare. They’re an ideal gluten-free appetizer that all your guests will enjoy.

Related Recipe:

Parmesan Easy Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Ingredients

Steps to Make It

01

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C/Gas Mark 6). Cover a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

02

Rinse the mushrooms. Take off the stems from the caps. Put the caps, rounded sides facing down, on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Dice the stems and set them aside.

03

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s slightly crispy; then drain it. Keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pan.

04

Mix 2 tablespoons of butter with the bacon grease in the pan and heat over medium heat. Toss in the chopped mushroom stems and diced onion or green onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns soft and clear, about 3 minutes.

05

Put the chopped spinach into the pan and cook until it wilts, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove any extra liquid from the pan and move the spinach mixture to a bowl to cool for a bit.

06

Mix the cooked bacon and 1/2 cup of the cheese into the slightly cooled spinach mixture. Stir well to combine everything.

07

Taste the mixture and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

08

Spoon about 2 to 3 teaspoons of the filling into each mushroom cap. Sprinkle a bit more fontina cheese on top of each one.

09

Bake for around 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the mushroom caps are nicely browned.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of fontina?

Fontina cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe due to its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor, which pairs beautifully with the spinach and bacon. However, if fontina is unavailable, you can substitute it with other cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor profile, so choose one that complements the other ingredients. For example, Gruyère adds a richer, slightly sweet taste, while mozzarella keeps it light and gooey.

2. Can I make this bacon stuffed mushrooms recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for prepping ahead of time, making it a convenient option for parties or busy weeknights. You can prepare the filling and stuff the mushroom caps up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. If baking straight from the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the mushrooms are heated through and the cheese is perfectly melted.

3. Are these stuffed mushrooms gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you’re serving this to someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, double-check that all ingredients, such as the bacon, are certified gluten-free. Some processed meats may contain gluten-based additives.

4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Frozen spinach is a great alternative to fresh spinach in this recipe. To use it, thaw the spinach completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Excess moisture can make the filling watery and prevent it from holding together well. Once drained, chop the spinach and proceed with the recipe as directed.

5. How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds, though the oven method will help retain their texture better.

6. Can I make this stuffed mushrooms recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarians by omitting the bacon. To maintain the smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a vegetarian bacon substitute. You can also enhance the filling with additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes, for extra flavor and texture.

7. What type of mushrooms work best for this stuffed mushrooms recipe?

Large cremini (baby bella) or white button mushrooms are ideal for stuffing because they have sturdy caps that hold their shape during baking. Avoid using overly delicate mushrooms, as they may break or become too soft. When selecting mushrooms, choose ones with deep, even caps to hold more filling.

8. Can I freeze these stuffed mushrooms?

While it’s possible to freeze these stuffed mushrooms, it’s best to freeze them before baking. Assemble the mushrooms as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place the frozen mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and golden. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the mushrooms, but they will still be delicious.

9. How can I make this recipe healthier?

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, consider these adjustments:

• Use turkey bacon or a leaner bacon alternative to reduce fat content.

• Substitute part of the fontina cheese with a lower-fat cheese or reduce the overall amount of cheese.

• Increase the proportion of spinach in the filling for added nutrients and fiber.

• Use a cooking spray instead of butter to sauté the onions and mushroom stems.

10. What can I serve with these stuffed mushrooms?

These stuffed mushrooms are a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a party spread, consider serving them alongside:

• A charcuterie board with cured meats, cheeses, and crackers.

• Fresh vegetable platters with dips like hummus or ranch.

• Other finger foods, such as bruschetta, mini quiches, or shrimp cocktail.

• A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

These Fontina, Spinach, and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Let me know if you need further tips or variations!