Cheesy Pizza Stuffed Mushrooms
Get ready for the ultimate low-carb pizza fix! These stuffed mushrooms pack all your favorite pizza flavors into perfect bite-sized portions that’ll make you forget about traditional crust altogether.
Imagine biting into tender mushroom caps loaded with gooey melted mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni. These little gems are about to become your new favorite party appetizer or guilt-free snack option.
Ingredients
- 12-15 large mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
- 2 mini pepperoni links, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 fresh basil leaf, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures the mushrooms cook quickly while the cheese gets perfectly melted and golden.
- Prepare a cast iron skillet by spraying with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Arrange the cleaned mushroom caps in a single layer, cavity side up.
- Fill each mushroom with 1-2 teaspoons of pizza sauce. Don’t overfill – leave room for toppings! Top with 1-2 tablespoons mozzarella cheese and 2-3 pepperoni slices.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cheese is melted and lightly golden. Watch closely after 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with chopped basil just before serving. The mushrooms should be tender but still hold their shape.
Smart Swaps
- Use turkey pepperoni to reduce fat content
- Try different cheese blends like provolone and parmesan
- Swap pizza sauce for pesto for a fresh twist
Make It Diabetes-Friendly
- Use low-sugar pizza sauce (saves 2g carbs per serving)
- Choose whole mushrooms over baby bella (higher fiber content)
- Add vegetables like diced bell peppers to increase fiber
Pro Tips
- Pat mushrooms dry before filling to prevent watery results
- Pre-cook mushrooms for 5 minutes if you prefer them extra tender
- Let cool 2-3 minutes before serving to avoid burnt tongues