Mushroom meatballs are a fantastic vegetarian alternative to traditional meatballs. They’re packed with flavor and have a satisfying texture. Here’s a recipe for making delicious mushroom meatballs:
Mushroom Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) mushrooms (such as cremini or button), finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a vegetarian recipe)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook Mushrooms: Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked mushroom mixture, Parmesan cheese (if using), breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
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Form Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve: Serve the mushroom meatballs with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or as a stand-alone appetizer with a dipping sauce.
These mushroom meatballs are versatile and can be adapted to your taste. You can add different herbs, spices, or even some finely grated vegetables. They also freeze well, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days. Enjoy!
