These crispy baked mushroom croquettes offer a delightful contrast between a crunchy golden exterior and a creamy, cheesy mushroom filling. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they are seasoned with aromatic herbs and coated in a crisp breadcrumb crust. Served warm alongside a smooth, herby dipping sauce, they are sure to please any crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms with a creamy cheese mixture, all encased in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Baking instead of frying makes it a healthier choice without sacrificing texture or taste. These croquettes are easy to prepare and ideal for entertaining, satisfying vegetarian diets, and can be customized with various cheeses or herbs to suit your preference.
Ingredients
10 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
1 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and moisture has evaporated, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and the cooked mushrooms. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roll each ball evenly in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they adhere.
- Arrange the croquettes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with a creamy herbed dipping sauce such as garlic aioli or ranch.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 15-18 croquettes, serving 4 to 6 people as an appetizer. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 15-18 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 35 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
- Use different cheeses such as sharp cheddar, gouda, or goat cheese for varied flavor profiles.
- Add finely chopped spinach or kale to the mixture for added greens.
- Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for a different aromatic touch.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for a mild spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
FAQs
What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are ideal due to their mild flavor and texture, but you can use any variety you prefer.
Can I prepare the croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the croquettes a day ahead. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh when ready.
Can I freeze the croquettes?
Yes, freeze unbaked croquettes on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I make the croquettes crispier?
Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating and ensure the mushrooms are well cooked to remove excess moisture.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian but not vegan due to the use of dairy cheeses.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
You may substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.
What dipping sauces pair well with these croquettes?
Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a simple herb yogurt dip complement the flavors well.
Are these croquettes suitable for kids?
Yes, their mild flavors and crispy texture make them a kid-friendly snack.
How do I prevent the croquettes from falling apart?
Ensure the mushroom mixture is well combined and slightly chilled before shaping. Press breadcrumbs firmly to help hold the shape.
Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed for baking, which yields a healthier result with a crispy crust.
Conclusion
Crispy baked mushroom croquettes are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that combines creamy, cheesy filling with a crunchy exterior. Their versatility and satisfying texture make them perfect for gatherings or a tasty snack. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these croquettes are sure to become a favorite addition to your recipe collection.
Print
Crispy Baked Mushroom Croquettes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 croquettes 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy mushroom filling, these golden croquettes make an irresistible appetizer or snack. Perfectly seasoned with herbs and coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, served alongside a smooth, herby dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 10 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and moisture evaporates, about 6-8 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, salt, pepper, and cooked mushrooms. Mix thoroughly until creamy and well combined.
- Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1.5 inches diameter).
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the croquettes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with a creamy herbed dipping sauce (such as garlic aioli or ranch).
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.
- Let the mushroom mixture cool slightly before forming balls to prevent sticking.
- Serve with garlic aioli, ranch, or your favorite creamy dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 croquettes
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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