This creamy spinach mushroom orzo is a comforting dish that’s full of flavor. The orzo pasta pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, all wrapped in a rich, creamy sauce!
You know a meal is good when it feels like a warm hug from the inside. I love serving this with a sprinkle of parmesan on top—it makes it extra special without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is small, rice-shaped pasta perfect for this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a great depth of flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too. For a more robust taste, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal because it wilts beautifully. If you’re short on spinach, kale can be a good substitute, although it may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the dish super creamy, half-and-half or even coconut milk can be lighter alternatives if you’re looking to reduce calories or dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor. However, you can use pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo perfectly is crucial for this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Use plenty of liquid: For every cup of orzo, use about 1.5 cups of broth.
- Don’t skip stirring: Occasionally stirring helps prevent sticking.
- Check doneness: Taste the orzo a minute before the cooking time is up to avoid overcooking, aiming for al dente texture.
Once cooked, you want it tender but still with a slight bite to it. This will help the orzo to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy!
Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy orzo takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking. A quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This will create a delicious foundation for your dish!
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown. They’ll soak up all the yummy flavors from the garlic and onions!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta! Stir it into the mushroom mixture and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor of the orzo before adding the liquids.
4. Simmer the Orzo:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should be tender and most of the liquid will be absorbed by this stage.
5. Add Spinach and Cream:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the roughly chopped spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until it’s wilted. Then, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is combined and creamy. If you’re using it, add in the dried thyme or Italian seasoning at this point for extra flavor.
6. Season and Serve:
Take a taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Once everything is creamy and well-mixed, remove from heat. Serve your creamy spinach mushroom orzo warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for that extra touch!
Enjoy your delicious creamy spinach mushroom orzo as a comforting main dish or a delightful side! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just keep in mind that it may require a few extra minutes to cook compared to regular orzo.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan! Use vegetable broth, a dairy-free cream substitute, and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms for the best results!