If you're on the hunt for a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender white button mushrooms filled with a creamy, tangy mixture that’s baked until golden and irresistible. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I first made these for a St. Patrick’s Day gathering, and they disappeared off the platter faster than I could say “Sláinte!” The combination of creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and that little hint of lemon brightness makes these stuffed mushrooms downright addictive.
- Perfect Party Starter: These bite-sized gems are great to serve when you want something impressive without massive effort.
- Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of caramelized shallots and tanginess from lemon juice complement the rich goat cheese beautifully.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, it’s a recipe that even busy home cooks will enjoy making.
- Versatile & Vegetarian: Ideal for vegetarians and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes or on their own as a snack.
Ingredients & Why They Work
When selecting ingredients for this Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms recipe, freshness makes all the difference. I always opt for firm, clean white button mushrooms and fresh herbs to maximize that vibrant flavor. Don’t skip toasting the pine nuts either—they add a lovely nutty crunch that elevates the whole dish.

- Olive Oil: Used in stages to both sauté shallots and brush mushrooms, adding richness and helping flavors meld.
- Shallot: Caramelized to bring a gentle sweetness and complexity to the filling.
- White Cooking Wine: Adds a subtle depth and helps lift the flavor of the shallots; you can substitute if needed.
- White Button Mushrooms: The perfect size and texture to hold the savory stuffing and soften when baked.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors throughout.
- Goat Cheese: Provides creamy tang and richness that complement the mushrooms perfectly.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Brightens the filling with a fresh, zesty note that cuts through the richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a subtle umami boost and depth to the mixture.
- Black Pepper and Garlic Powder: For seasoning with gentle warmth and a mild punch.
- Fresh Herbs: I like parsley and chives for a fresh, green flavor that feels lively and herbaceous.
- Pine Nuts: Toasted to offer crunch and a toasty, buttery nuance.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the filling and adds a nice bite when baked.
- For Garnish: Additional lemon zest, fresh herbs, and toasted pine nuts make for a beautiful, flavorful finish.
Make It Your Way
The beauty of this Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe is how wonderfully adaptable it is. Whether you want to tweak the herbs, swap out ingredients due to dietary preferences, or add seasonal touches, the filling welcomes your creative spin.
- Herb Swap: I love swapping the parsley and chives for fresh thyme or rosemary when making these mushrooms in cooler months. It adds an earthy depth that complements the richness of the goat cheese beautifully.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: If you’re avoiding alcohol, simply replace the white cooking wine with low-sodium chicken broth or even white grape juice. I’ve done this for family gatherings, and the flavor remains bright and delicious.
- Nut-Free Version: For a nut-free twist, skip the toasted pine nuts and increase the breadcrumbs slightly. The mushrooms still get that lovely crunch without any nutty flavor.
- Cheese Variation: While goat cheese is the star here, you can try a sharp Irish cheddar for a bolder, creamier filling. It’s a different take but keeps the dish truly Irish and delightful.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Space
First things first, move your oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even heat circulation for perfect cooking. Next, lightly spray your 9×13-inch baking dish (or any 3-quart dish) with nonstick cooking spray so the mushrooms don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: Caramelize the Shallots to Golden Perfection
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the small diced shallots and stir often. You want them soft and golden—this takes about 7 to 8 minutes. The aroma as they caramelize is going to make your kitchen smell amazing! Then, pour in the ¼ cup white cooking wine. Cook it down for 3 to 5 minutes until all the liquid evaporates, leaving behind that subtle, sweet, savory depth.
Step 3: Prep Your Mushrooms for Stuffing
While you’re caramelizing shallots, rinse your 1 pound of white button mushrooms gently and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove the stems carefully and discard them—those are not needed for this recipe. Arrange the mushroom caps stem-side down in your prepared baking dish. Use a pastry brush to coat them evenly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle lightly with salt to enhance their natural flavor.
Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
In a small bowl, combine the caramelized shallots with 4 ounces of softened goat cheese. Add 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice and the zest from one lemon for a fresh, zingy kick. Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives. Then fold in the toasted pine nuts and ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs. Mix everything together until creamy and fully combined. This filling is where the magic happens—rich, tangy, with just the right crunch.
Step 5: Stuff and Prepare to Bake
Spoon a heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture into each mushroom cap. Don’t be shy—these little bites want to be generously filled. After stuffing, brush the tops of the mushrooms with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil to help them brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake and Garnish
Pop your filled mushrooms into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for golden-brown tops and tender mushrooms — that telltale sign they’re perfectly cooked. Once out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the filling set. Finish off by garnishing with extra chopped fresh herbs, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and some toasted pine nuts for that extra pop of texture and brightness. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast!
Top Tip
These tips are my little secrets to making the Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms recipe truly shine every single time. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, these pointers will help you nail the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory in every bite.
- Caramelizing Shallots Perfectly: Be patient and stir gently over medium heat to get those shallots beautifully golden without burning. Their sweetness really elevates the filling.
- Choosing the Right Mushrooms: I always pick firm white button mushrooms with no bruises. They hold their shape well after baking and have a mild flavor that complements the filling.
- Mixing the Filling: Make sure to soften your goat cheese before mixing. This makes the filling silky smooth and easy to spoon into the mushroom caps without crumbling.
- Don’t Skip Toasting Pine Nuts: I learned the hard way that raw pine nuts can taste bitter. Toasting them lightly brings out their nutty aroma and adds a lovely crunch.
How to Serve Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Garnishes
Finish these stuffed mushrooms with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the plate. A few extra toasted pine nuts scattered on top add a delightful crunch and that irresistible toasted aroma. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and make every bite taste fresh and vibrant.
Side Dishes
Serve these Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms alongside crisp mixed greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette, or pair with a warm Irish soda bread for a full flavor experience. They also make a fantastic appetizer before heartier mains like beef stew, roasted lamb, or even a creamy risotto. For a party, consider serving them with an assortment of other vegetarian appetizers to please your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stuffed mushrooms in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy them as a quick snack or a light lunch.
Freezing
If you'd like to make these ahead of time and freeze, arrange the stuffed (but not baked) mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or previously baked mushrooms in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the mushrooms can become soggy. Let them cool slightly before serving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! While white button mushrooms are classic and hold the filling well, cremini or baby portobello mushrooms also work nicely and offer deeper flavor.
You can swap goat cheese for cream cheese or ricotta for a milder taste. Just be sure the cheese is softened to keep the filling creamy.
Yes! This Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms recipe is vegetarian, featuring no meat ingredients.
Definitely. You can prepare and stuff the mushrooms in advance, refrigerate for a few hours or freeze them, then bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope you fall in love with this Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms recipe just like I have. Their warm, creamy filling with that bright pop of lemon zest makes them a standout appetizer for any occasion. Whether you're serving friends, family, or just indulging yourself, these mushrooms are sure to bring a little bit of Irish comfort and charm to your table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Irish Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer featuring tender white button mushrooms filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese, caramelized shallots, fresh herbs, toasted pine nuts, and a hint of lemon. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a savory and tangy bite that's perfect for entertaining or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, separated
- 1 small shallot, diced small
- ¼ cup white cooking wine
- 1 pound white button mushrooms
- Salt, to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley and chives)
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
For Garnish
- Lemon zest
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish. Move the oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish or any 3-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Caramelize Shallots. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and cook, stirring often, until softened and golden, about 7 to 8 minutes. Pour in the white cooking wine and cook until the liquid evaporates, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Prepare Mushrooms. While the shallots are cooking, rinse the white button mushrooms and pat them dry. Remove and discard the stems. Place the mushroom caps on the baking dish. Brush the mushrooms with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Make the Filling. In a small bowl, combine the caramelized shallots, goat cheese, lemon juice and zest, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, toasted pine nuts, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until creamy and combined.
- Stuff Mushrooms. Fill each mushroom cap generously with about a heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture.
- Brush and Bake. Brush the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are browned and the mushrooms are tender.
- Cool and Garnish. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts before serving.
Notes
- This recipe yields about 30 stuffed mushrooms, ideal for 10 servings.
- If you prefer not to use white cooking wine, substitute it with low-sodium chicken broth or white grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
- For a different flavor twist, try adding finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary in place of parsley and chives.
- Make sure to toast the pine nuts lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use fresh lemon zest for garnish to add an extra pop of brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mushrooms
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
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