I used to hate mushrooms. Like my whole life, despiiiiised them. If they were even anywhere near my food, I wouldn’t touch the plate. I’m not really sure what it was or why? They have always been one of my moms favorites so they were always around when I was growing up..I don’t know, I just think most kids dislike mushrooms..maybe Im wrong? Oh I hope Im wrong, then I can start giving them to my son.
Does anyone else with kids automatically think that their kids might not like something, so just don’t give it to them, instead of letting them try it for themselves first? God, I’m awful about that, I’m trying sooo hard to get better about it, because he always surprises me. For example, the kid loves spicy food. That discovery was an accident, but a good one, because now I don’t have to be so careful about how much spice I add to our dinners! But still, I should just let him try everything.
Anyways, back to mushrooms. Now, I LOVE them. I always add them to my food, much to my hubs’ dismay, he’s still on the mushroom hatin’ badwagon’, someone knock him off! But I love them, so into the dish they go! 😉 Oh oh! you long time mushroom lovers, how the heck do I store those pesky little things? Not the buttons, because those seem to last me, but the pre-sliced up ones. Seems like if I don’t use them within a few days they get smelly and go bad. eww. So what can I do to prolong their life? I’m sick of throwing out half used mushroom cartons. I hate waste!
Now that you know that I love mushrooms, let me tell you about my favorite stuffed mushroom to date! I’ve made these Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms a few times now, subbing in turkey bacon once, and each time they have turned out equally fantastic! There is just so much flavor, and the panko gives it a little crunch, while the mushroom is soft. There is a perfect balance of sweet glaze, salty bacon, and earthy spinach. My mom and I practically inhaled an entire tray ourselves. We had to refrain, so we could share. These little beauties are a permanent for all future parties! The ratios are perfect, the textures couldn’t be better, and the flavors are a match made in heaven! I’m a mushroom convert, and these little suckers did that for me!
Sweet, salty, and earthy flavors make these Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms with a Balsamic Glaze absolutely perfect!
Ingredients
- 20 ounces cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, 1/2 of the mushrooms stems, minced up
- 5 slices bacon, chopped small
- 1/3 cup minced yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed
- 1 cup whole wheat seasoned panko
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
- Balsamic Glaze for Drizzling
Directions
- In a medium sized skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove, set aside, and reserve the drippings in the pan.
- Add to the drippings the minced onion, and garlic. Cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add in the minced up mushroom stems, and saute 3-4 minutes longer.
- Transfer to a large bowl. Add in the cooked bacon, thawed out spinach, panko, and parmesan cheese. Stir to mix well.
- Stir in the melted butter.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Start stuffing the mushrooms, pushing the filling inside and then leaving a heaping amount on top. Don't worry, it stays together if you push it firmly. (I just used my hands)
- Pop in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, until the tops are all golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, cool for 3-4 minutes before transferring or drizzling with the balsamic glaze. Enjoy!