The Best Appetizers

Don't tell the other courses, but everyone knows the first bites are the best. Find more amazing apps at delish.​com/ easy-apps

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STUFFED MUSHROOMS

SERVES 8

45 MIN

Cooking spray

1½ lb. baby bella mushrooms, rinsed

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, plus more for topping

4 oz. cream cheese, softened

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme

1. Arrange a rack in center of oven; preheat to 400°. Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Remove stems from mushrooms and finely chop. Arrange caps on prepared sheet.

2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped mushroom stems and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the moisture is evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until slightly toasted, about 3 minutes; season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly.

3. Transfer breadcrumb mixture to a large bowl. Add Parmesan, cream cheese, parsley, and thyme; season with salt and pepper and stir to combine. Fill mushroom caps with filling and sprinkle with more Parmesan.

4. Bake stuffed mushrooms until softened and tops are golden, about 20 minutes.

5. Transfer stuffed mushrooms to a platter and top with more parsley. -MAKINZE GORE

BACON-SPINACH DIP

SERVES 8

45 MIN

10 slices bacon

1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. paprika

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 lb. frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed dry

2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup)

1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided