Description
This creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a quick dinner. Tender orzo pasta is cooked in a savory vegetable broth, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach, then finished with rich heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a luscious texture and taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Vegetables
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Fats and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat fats: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil to create a flavorful base for cooking the mushrooms.
- Sauté mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Toast orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly by stirring for about 2 minutes to bring out a nutty aroma.
- Cook orzo in broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add cream, cheese, and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired, then serve the creamy orzo hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer flavor if not keeping it vegetarian.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright herbal note but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking to the pan.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
