This creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is a delicious, quick meal that comes together in just 30 minutes! It’s comforting and oh-so-rich with flavors that will warm your heart.
You’ll love how easy it is to make—one pan and a little stirring, and dinner is ready! I often add a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is perfect for creamy dishes. If you can’t find orzo, consider alternatives like quinoa or other tiny pasta shapes like ditalini.
Vegetable Broth: A good broth boosts flavor. If you’re in a pinch, water or chicken broth works too! Homemade broth is great for rich taste but store-bought is just fine.
Fresh Spinach: While fresh is best for tenderness, frozen spinach is a budget-friendly substitute. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms are great here, but you can switch to shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor. Just chop them into small pieces to blend well.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt. They add creaminess with fewer calories. Nut milk can be used too—but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Mushrooms?
Cooking mushrooms brings out their umami flavor and enhances the dish’s depth. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet first before adding oil; this helps mushrooms not to get soggy.
- Cook them until they’re golden, allowing moisture to evaporate. This can take about 5-6 minutes.
- Space them out in the pan; crowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Don’t rush! Patience is key to releasing their full flavor.
How to Make Creamy Spinach And Mushroom Orzo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy spinach and mushroom orzo takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. You’ll be enjoying this dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. This will add a nice flavor base to your orzo.
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook everything together for another 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on the mushrooms; they’ll become tender and release their moisture, which adds to the dish’s creaminess.
3. Cook the Orzo:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta and vegetable broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should be cooked and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
4. Add Spinach and Cream:
Once the orzo is cooked, toss in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Stir everything together so that the spinach wilts down and the mixture gets creamy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, and your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
5. Season and Garnish:
Finally, season your orzo with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like, sprinkle some paprika and red pepper flakes on top for a little extra flavor and color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your creamy spinach and mushroom orzo while it’s warm. If you want, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of yumminess. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo gives a lovely creamy texture, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as some may need more or less time to cook.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that using milk may result in a less creamy texture, so you might want to add a bit of flour to help thicken it. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, coconut cream or a plant-based cream can work well!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen up the orzo as it may thicken when chilled, and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Just sauté these with the onions and mushrooms to ensure they’re cooked through before adding the broth and orzo.
