Italian Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 1 tablespoon drippings. Remove stems from mushrooms; set caps aside. Finely chop half of the stems (save the remaining for another use). Add chopped stems to drippings with bacon; saute for 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Firmly stuff crouton mixture into mushroom caps. Place in a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Bake at 425° for 12-15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender. Yield: 15 servings.