ITALIAN SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS

           

            In the early 2000’s, I was the Executive Chef for an Italian restaurant that was truly a mess when I arrived. If there is anything, I can share with those that are not from the hospitality industry, it is that a restaurant that is run with ego outside of the kitchen will fail. This recipe was created in this restaurant and after being served for one evening, its success was removed and never allowed to see a plate again. This angered me, as it would anyone, and because of that I am giving it to the world! This deserves to be seen and tasted everywhere.

            Stuffed mushrooms are a staple for many. The simplicity and elegance of this item is truly understated. My family has made mushrooms stuffed with bread stuffing for most of my life, this is new to them and everyone that tries it. With that being said, I give to you…. ITALIAN SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS!!!F

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. White Cap Mushrooms (Size is dependent on your preference, but one pound is universal)

2 Large Cloves Garlic (Diced)

1/8 cup Diced Sweet Onion

1 Tbl Olive Oil

¼ cup Mushroom Stems (Diced)

1 lb. Ground Mild Italian Sausage (Removed from casings)

¼ cup Plain Breadcrumbs

½ cup Pasta Sauce

1/3 lb. Mozzarella Cheese (Sliced into ¼ inch thick pieces)

INSTRUCTIONS

1.      Preheat oven to 425 degrees F

2.      Remove stems from mushrooms and dice (do not discard)

3.      In a medium sized saute pan, add olive oil. Heat over medium heat

4.      When oil is hot, add garlic, onions, and diced stems to pan and heat till sweating.

5.      Once sweating, remove from heat and place contents in a mixing bowl

6.      Add sausage and breadcrumbs to mixing bowl and combine (like mixing a meatball)

7.      Place mushroom caps on a baking sheet and stuff with sausage mixture rounding at top to create a dome shape

8.      Place in oven and cook for 15 minutes

9.      Remove from oven and spoon pasta sauce over each mushroom

10.  Place one piece of mozzarella on top of each mushroom and place back into oven cooking till cheese is fully melted

11.  Remove from oven and enjoy

There are times that one must defy the rules to do what is right. This is the right thing to do by providing everyone with the ability to make what was prevented from seeing the success it should have had. I hope it brings you the joy that others missed.

Gratefully Yours,

Chef Tufaro