Creamy Stuffed Mushroom Dip

This savory stuffed mushroom dip transforms the classic appetizer into a warm, indulgent dip that's perfect for entertaining. The combination of earthy mushrooms with creamy cheese creates an irresistible dish that captures all the flavors of traditional stuffed mushrooms but in a shareable format.

I first created this dip when looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day that wouldn't have me stuck in the kitchen. Now it's requested at every gathering I host, and friends have started bringing their own bread just to ensure they get enough.

Ingredients

• Baby bella mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor that forms the base of this dip
• Avocado oil has a high smoke point perfect for sautéing without burning
• Fresh garlic cloves add punchy flavor that dried just cannot match
• Fresh thyme brings an aromatic quality that elevates the mushrooms
• Cream cheese creates the creamy foundation of this dip
• Greek yogurt adds tanginess and creates a lighter texture than using all cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese provides both flavor in the dip and that irresistible golden crust on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soften Cream Cheese

Allow your cream cheese to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before beginning. This crucial step ensures it will blend smoothly with the other ingredients without leaving lumps in your dip.

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F so it reaches the perfect temperature by the time your dip is assembled. A properly preheated oven helps achieve even cooking and that beautiful golden top.

Prepare The Mushrooms

Carefully clean your mushrooms with a damp paper towel rather than washing them. Remove the stems and slice them about 1/4 inch thick. The stems can be chopped finely and included for extra mushroom flavor if desired.

Sauté Aromatics

Heat avocado oil in a cast iron skillet over medium low heat. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your dip. The garlic should become fragrant and just barely golden around the edges after about 3 minutes.

Cook The Mushrooms

Add your sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the aromatics. Toss frequently to coat the mushrooms in the fragrant oil. Cook until they release their moisture and begin to shrink slightly, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt which both flavors the mushrooms and helps draw out additional moisture.

Prepare The Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and half of the shredded parmesan. Mix until completely smooth. The soft cream cheese will blend much easier now that it has been properly softened.

Combine Everything

Add your cheese mixture to the skillet with the cooked mushrooms. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the mushrooms evenly throughout the cheese base. Spread the mixture into an even layer and top with the remaining parmesan cheese to create a beautiful golden crust during baking.

Bake To Perfection

Place your cast iron skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the dip is heated through and beginning to bubble around the edges. This initial baking melts all the cheese and allows the flavors to meld together.

Create A Golden Top

Switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This step creates that irresistible browned, slightly crispy top that makes this dip so appealing.

Serve Immediately

Remove from the oven and let rest for just 2 3 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps the dip set slightly while still remaining perfectly scoopable. Serve alongside toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Save This

The Greek yogurt in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its magical properties while trying to lighten up the traditional all cream cheese version. Not only does it add a wonderful tangy note that balances the richness, but it also creates the perfect consistency that stays scoopable even as the dip begins to cool.

Make Ahead Options

This dip can be fully assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare everything in your cast iron skillet up to the baking step, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to the initial baking time.

Perfect Pairings

The earthy mushroom flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Crusty sourdough bread slices provide the perfect sturdy base, while butter crackers offer a nice contrast in texture. For a lower carb option, endive leaves or cucumber rounds work beautifully. This dip also makes a delicious topping for baked potatoes or grilled chicken for a complete meal option.

Flavor Variations

While this classic version is always a hit, you can create exciting variations by adding different flavor elements. Try mixing in 1/4 cup of crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky addition. Caramelized onions make another wonderful addition when cooked alongside the mushrooms. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and thyme.

Common Queries

→ What can I serve with mushroom dip?

This dip pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, various crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables like bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, and carrot sticks. For a low-carb option, endive leaves or celery sticks work well.

→ Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dip up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely. While baby bella (cremini) mushrooms provide a rich flavor, you can substitute white button mushrooms or create a blend with shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms. Each variety will add its own unique flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 325°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the oils to separate.

→ Can I make this dip vegetarian?

The dip is already vegetarian. For a vegan adaptation, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy yogurt, and replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese that melts well.

→ What herbs can I substitute for thyme?

Rosemary, oregano, or sage work well as substitutes for thyme in this dish. You could also use Italian herb blend or herbes de Provence for a more complex flavor profile.