Introduction:

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms and Spinach is the perfect cozy and comforting dish for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta is enveloped in a velvety sauce with earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a hint of Parmesan. This quick and easy recipe brings gourmet flavors to your table without the fuss!

Ingredients:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Stir in the cooked orzo pasta and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Variation:

Cheesy Mushroom Orzo: Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan to create a gooier and more indulgent texture. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding a rich and velvety consistency that makes every bite extra comforting.
Spicy Garlic Orzo: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a hint of heat. The spice pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce, giving the dish a balanced kick that complements the earthy mushrooms.
Protein-Packed Orzo: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to make it a hearty, protein-rich meal. Cook your protein separately to ensure it stays tender and juicy, then add it to the creamy mixture just before serving to meld the flavors.

Cooking Notes:

For a burst of freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the pasta before serving.
Use baby bella or cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer taste if preferred.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a dusting of grated Parmesan. The bright green parsley adds a pop of color, while the extra cheese enhances the creamy, savory flavor.
Pair with Protein: Serve the creamy orzo alongside grilled chicken or roasted salmon for a complete and satisfying meal. The light, creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of roasted or grilled meats.
Add a Crunchy Element: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top before serving. The nutty crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creamy orzo, making each bite more enjoyable.

Tips:

Balance the Flavors: Taste the dish before serving and adjust seasoning as needed, especially after adding the cream and Parmesan. A touch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the orzo and sauce separately if making ahead. Combine and heat just before serving to maintain the dish’s texture and prevent the orzo from absorbing too much sauce.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover creamy orzo as a stuffing for bell peppers or mushrooms. Simply spoon the mixture into hollowed-out veggies, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Sodium: 370 mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo gives a creamy and risotto-like texture, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Consider adding roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra color and flavor. You can sauté them along with the mushrooms or add them toward the end for a fresher taste.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the leftover orzo pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to revive the creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms and Spinach is a deliciously creamy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of earthy mushrooms, tender spinach, and velvety sauce makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s super customizable with endless variations to suit your taste. Give it a try and elevate your pasta night with this comforting, flavorful meal! 🍝

Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms and Spinach

Author: Avery
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Stir in the cooked orzo pasta and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a burst of freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the pasta before serving.
Use baby bella or cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer taste if preferred.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 370 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 10 g
Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Creamy orzo pasta, mushroom orzo, spinach orzo, easy pasta recipes, vegetarian dinner