Homemade Red Lobster-Inspired Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Gently clean mushrooms with a damp cloth. Carefully remove stems and finely chop them. Set mushroom caps aside.

3. 3

   In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely diced onion, celery, and chopped mushroom stems. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

4. 4

   Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Stir in the finely chopped shrimp (and imitation crab, if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink.

6. 6

   Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add panko breadcrumbs, softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Mix well until everything is combined.

7. 7

   Season the stuffing mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the flavors are balanced.

8. 8

   Spoon the seafood stuffing generously into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly.

9. 9

   Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of each mushroom.

10. 10

    Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mushrooms are tender. If desired, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes for a golden-brown top, watching carefully to prevent burning.

11. 11

    Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Red Lobster-inspired appetizer!