Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bread Crumbs

I'm already testing appetizer recipes for the upcoming party season. From our Halloween shindig in a couple of weeks straight through to New Year's, I fix lots of nibbles and snacks for a variety of occasions. Here's one that's a keeper. It's easy to assemble and can be made ahead. And each little bite is packed with flavor with nice contrasting texture.


(One note: I thought the browned cremini mushrooms got a little dark and looked a bit unappetizing. One of my guests disagreed, saying she liked the contrasting colors of the mushrooms and the goat cheese. Regardless, I might use white button mushrooms next time.)


Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms with Bread Crumbs
From Food & Wine
Makes 24 pieces.

24 large cremini mushrooms (1 1/2 pounds), stems discarded
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon rosemary leaves, plus one 3-inch sprig of rosemary
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons fine bread crumbs
6 ounces fresh goat cheese, cut into 24 pieces

Preheat the oven to 400°. In a bowl, toss the mushrooms with 3 tablespoons of the oil and the rosemary leaves and season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mushrooms to a baking sheet, rounded side up. Roast for about 30 minutes, until tender and browned around the edges. Let cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.

In a skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil. Add the rosemary sprig and cook over moderately high heat until the leaves are crisp, 30 seconds. Drain on paper towels, then strip off the leaves. Pour off all but 1 teaspoon of the rosemary oil and reserve it for another use.
Add the bread crumbs to the skillet and toast over moderate heat until golden and crisp, 2 minutes. Stir in the fried rosemary leaves and season with salt and pepper.

Gently press a piece of goat cheese in the center of each mushroom, sprinkle with the bread crumbs and serve.


Note: You can stuff the mushrooms a day ahead and refrigerate. Before serving, let come to room temperature and sprinkle with the bread crumbs.