Phyllis Diller’s Delightful Stuffed Mushrooms: A Culinary Blast from the Past

The first time I encountered stuffed mushrooms was at a potluck thrown by my eccentric Aunt Millie, a woman who, much like Phyllis Diller herself, embraced the wonderfully bizarre. Aunt Millie’s were… memorable, to say the least. I remember her proudly proclaiming they were “an experiment,” and the texture was a little off, but the flavor was undeniably intriguing. That slightly odd, yet deeply comforting experience sparked a lifelong love for these savory bites. Years later, discovering Phyllis Diller’s version felt like a serendipitous reunion with that quirky, comforting spirit of home cooking.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 12 mushrooms
• Dietary Type: Not specified, contains meat and dairy.

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 ounces deviled ham
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 1/2 teaspoons parsley, minced
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 1/8 teaspoon seasoning salt
• Paprika for dusting
• 12 large mushrooms

Equipment Needed

• Medium mixing bowl
• Greased baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures the mushrooms cook evenly and the filling is heated through perfectly.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the deviled ham, grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg yolk, minced parsley, fresh ground black pepper, and seasoning salt. Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. Make sure there are no large clumps of ham for the best texture.

3. Carefully clean the mushrooms. Gently remove the stems from each mushroom cap. A small spoon can be helpful for this. Be careful not to break the caps. Reserve the stems for another use, such as in a vegetable broth or finely chopped and added to an omelet.

4. Fill each mushroom cap generously with the ham mixture. Pack it in firmly so it doesn’t fall out during baking. A slightly rounded mound is ideal.

5. Dust the tops of the filled mushrooms generously with paprika. This not only adds a touch of color but also enhances the savory flavor profile.

6. Place the stuffed mushrooms in a greased baking dish. Using a greased dish will prevent sticking and allow the mushrooms to brown nicely on the bottom.

7. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) until the mushrooms are tender. This should take approximately 20-25 minutes. The mushrooms are done when they are soft and slightly wrinkled, and the filling is heated through and lightly browned. A gentle press with a fork will tell you if they are tender.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Elevate the Filling: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a minced clove of garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ham mixture.
• Breadcrumb Boost: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping. You can also toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the mixture for enhanced flavor.
• Mushroom Moisture: To prevent soggy mushrooms, you can briefly sauté them in a dry pan before stuffing them. This helps to release some of their moisture beforehand.
• Make-Ahead Magic: The filling can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply stuff the mushrooms and bake them when ready to serve.
• Leftover Love: If you have leftover filling, use it as a spread for crackers or sandwiches.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These stuffed mushrooms are best served warm, directly from the oven. They make a wonderful appetizer for parties, a delightful addition to a buffet, or even a satisfying light meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through, or microwave them in short bursts. While reheating in the oven will retain better texture, microwaving is quicker and easier. Reheating may slightly affect the texture of the mushrooms, making them a bit softer.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	55 kcal	3%
Total Fat	4g	5%
Saturated Fat	1g	6%
Cholesterol	24mg	8%
Sodium	176mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	3g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	1%
Sugars	1g	2%
Protein	3g	6%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the deviled ham with a mixture of finely chopped walnuts, sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of vegetable broth for moisture.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for a spicier flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or feta.
• Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a gluten-free version.
• Herb Infusion: Add other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the filling for a unique flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different types of mushrooms?

A: Absolutely! While large mushrooms are ideal for stuffing, you can use smaller varieties like cremini or button mushrooms as well. You may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze these stuffed mushrooms?

A: It is not recommended to freeze these stuffed mushrooms as the texture can become quite soft upon thawing. It is best to make them fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days.

Q: What if I don’t have seasoning salt?

A: You can easily make your own seasoning salt by combining equal parts salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the filling?

A: Yes, finely diced vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or celery can be sautéed and added to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Q: How do I prevent the mushrooms from becoming watery?

A: Sautéing the mushrooms briefly before stuffing them can help to release excess moisture. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this can steam the mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

Phyllis Diller’s Stuffed Mushrooms are more than just a recipe; they are a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, flavorful comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, these mushrooms are sure to deliver. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be delighted by this classic dish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make it your own. And, most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something delicious!