This creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is a warm, comforting dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s made with tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms in a rich sauce.
If you’re like me, you love a good one-pan meal. Less cleanup means more time to enjoy this delightful dinner! Plus, it’s so creamy and delicious, it’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta gives the dish a hearty texture. If you can’t find orzo, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or couscous can work too, but check the cooking times as they may vary.
Mushrooms: Cremini and button mushrooms are great choices. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use zucchini instead.
Heavy Cream: To keep it dairy-free, coconut cream works wonderfully. You can also use cashew cream or almond milk with a bit of cornstarch if you’re aiming for a lighter texture.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re going for a vegan option, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute for that cheesy flavor. If you can consume dairy, feel free to skip it to lighten up the dish.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo seems easy, but getting it just right is key for a creamy, delicious dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by toasting the orzo briefly before adding liquid. This brings out its nutty flavor.
- Make sure to sauté it with the garlic and mushrooms for even better taste.
- Monitor the cooking process. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
It’s also important to have enough liquid—if you find it’s getting too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more broth. This will keep your orzo creamy and well-cooked!
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Orzo Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for non-vegan)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy orzo dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything to creamy perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This will give your dish a lovely garlic flavor!
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms start to soften and release their juices. They should look a little wrinkled and tender.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Now, stir in the orzo pasta. Make sure it gets well coated in all that garlicky goodness. Let it toast for about 1 minute; this adds a nice depth of flavor to the orzo.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Mix in Spinach and Cream:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and your choice of heavy cream or coconut cream. Mix everything well, allowing the spinach to wilt and the cream to incorporate into the dish.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
If you’re using Parmesan cheese, now is the time to add it! Stir until it melts and combines into a creamy mixture. Season your orzo with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your creamy spinach and mushroom orzo with fresh parsley to add a lovely color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice for a variation. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make this orzo vegan, simply use coconut cream (or another plant-based cream) and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. You’ll still get that creamy texture and delicious flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so they’re tender but not overcooked. Adding vegetables is a great way to customize the dish!
