Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed baked mussels combine the natural briny flavor of fresh mussels with a savory stuffing of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. The result is a perfect balance of textures—tender mussels, crispy topping, and the delightful richness of cheese. The addition of lemon zest brightens the flavor, and the fresh herbs give each bite a refreshing aroma. Plus, they’re baked in just 15-20 minutes, making them an easy yet elegant appetizer or party dish.
This recipe is a fun and impressive way to enjoy seafood, and it’s sure to become a favorite for family gatherings or special occasions!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 large mussels (cleaned and prepped)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the mussels bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden finish. - Prepare the Mussels
Place the cleaned mussels open side up on a baking dish. You can remove the top shell if you prefer, but keeping it adds an extra touch of elegance. - Sauté the Aromatics
In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. - Mix the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and lemon zest. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. - Stuff the Mussels
Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously onto each mussel, making sure they are well-covered. Press the stuffing down gently to secure it in place. - Bake
Place the stuffed mussels in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. - Serve Hot
Remove the mussels from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 stuffed mussels
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Stuffed Mussels: Add a bit more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicier kick.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for pecorino or a mixture of mozzarella and Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh basil or parsley, you can use dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or tarragon.
- Vegetarian Version: You can make a vegetarian version by stuffing the mussels with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and some finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, omitting any seafood.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover stuffed mussels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the mussels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through and the topping crisps back up.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mussels, but make sure they are fully thawed and drained before preparing them.
2. Can I make stuffed mussels in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed mussels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
3. Can I add more cheese to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese for a richer flavor. You could also try a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste.
4. Can I use a different type of breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use any breadcrumbs you have on hand, but panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light, crispy texture.
5. How do I know when the mussels are cooked?
Mussels are cooked once they’ve opened during baking. If any mussels remain closed, discard them.
6. Can I make these mussels without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version. The stuffing will still be delicious with the garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
7. Can I use other seafood besides mussels?
While this recipe is for mussels, you can also use clams or scallops for a similar stuffed seafood dish.
8. How can I make the stuffing spicier?
If you love spice, add extra red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture.
9. Can I prepare the mussels without the top shell?
Yes, you can remove the top shell for easier serving, but keeping the shells on adds to the presentation and holds the stuffing in place.
10. How do I clean mussels?
To clean mussels, scrub the shells under cold water and remove the “beard” (the fibrous part sticking out of the shell) by pulling it firmly.
Conclusion
These stuffed baked mussels are a fantastic combination of flavors and textures, from the tender mussels to the crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping. They’re quick to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering or special occasion. With options for customization and easy reheating, this recipe will surely become a go-to for seafood lovers. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, stuffed baked mussels are guaranteed to impress!
Stuffed Baked Mussels: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 12!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed mussels
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Stuffed baked mussels are a delicious seafood appetizer filled with a savory breadcrumb mixture, topped with Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
12 large mussels (cleaned and prepped)
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cleaned mussels open side up on a baking dish. You can remove the top shell if you prefer, but keeping it adds an extra touch of elegance.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- In a bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and lemon zest. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
- Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously onto each mussel, making sure they are well-covered. Press the stuffing down gently to secure it in place.
- Place the stuffed mussels in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the mussels from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
Notes
Leftover mussels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place the mussels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
You can make this dish spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Substitute the Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Make a vegetarian version by omitting the seafood and using finely chopped vegetables in the stuffing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed mussel
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
