RECIPE: 2009 Oscar Party - Stuffed Benjamin Button Mushrooms

If you're planning an Oscar party of your own, here are some simple appetizers for guests to chow down on that have a "theme" of one of the nominees, "The MCysterious Case of Benjamin Button." Taking a cue from Brad Pitt's flick, these Button Mushrooms are stuffed with a delicious filling that guests will enjoy. And they kinda look like shriveled old men when they come out of the oven, too!

It's a tasty appetizer and great for vegetarian guests!

INGREDIENTS

1. White Mushrooms (stems removed)
2. 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (from the can)
3. 1/2 cup shredded cheese of your choice (a 4-Cheese Italian blend is delicious!)
4. 2 tsp. Olive Oil
5. 3 tbls. fresh parsley (or to taste)
6. Garlic powder (to taste)
7. Pepper (to taste)
8. Butter-flavored cooking spray OR 1 tbls. Olive Oil

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Combine the breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, parsley, 2 tsp. of olive oil and spices (to your personal taste) in a small bowl.

Step 2: Hollow out the mushrooms by removing the stems and spoon the filling into them.

Step 3: Spray a cookie sheet or shallow baking pan with cooking spray, or spread a thin layer of a tablespoon of olive oil on it so that the mushrooms don't stick.

Step 4: Lay the mushrooms on the tray, about an inch apart.

Step 5: Set the oven to 400 F and put the mushrooms in for rougly 20 minutes, until the mushrooms become tender and the filling turns golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve instantly, piping hot, or let stand for a half an hour. As another option, you can also add a bit of crabmeat to this filling, which is equally delicious. It's still just as good, though, with only the cheese and breadcrumbs. Enjoy!