This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is a cozy and quick dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. All you need is orzo, fresh spinach, and tasty mushrooms, making it delightful and filling!
I love how it all cooks in one pan—less dishes to wash! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. You’ll have a tasty meal on the table in no time, perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta adds a lovely texture to the dish. If you don’t have orzo, other small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa can work in a pinch.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth is key for flavor. You can use water, but the dish may lack depth. Homemade broth is best, but store-bought works fine too!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer a rich flavor, but white button mushrooms will work as well. If you’re looking for a unique twist, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture, but if you want a lighter option, coconut milk is fantastic. You can also use unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a nice umami kick, feel free to skip it for a vegan version. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo can be tricky if you’re not paying attention. It’s important to stir it often, especially when adding the broth, to prevent sticking. Here’s how:
- Once you add the orzo to the skillet, combine it well with the veggies to coat it in oil and flavors.
- After adding the broth, increase the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat for simmering. This helps the orzo absorb the liquid evenly.
- Keep stirring every few minutes while simmering; this prevents clumping and helps with even cooking.
Test the orzo after 10 minutes, and it should be al dente but still creamy! If it’s too dry, add a splash more broth or water as needed.
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 30 minutes in total for this recipe. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. This helps build a delicious base for your dish!
2. Cooking the Mushrooms:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms into the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Combining the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring nicely to coat it in the mushroom mixture. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for great flavor in every bite.
4. Adding Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, so the flavors start to come together.
5. Simmering the Orzo:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Mixing in Spinach and Cream:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is creamy and delicious.
7. Finishing Touches:
If you’re using Parmesan cheese, fold it in now. Taste your orzo and adjust the seasoning as needed. Turn off the heat and get ready to serve!
8. Serving:
Serve the creamy spinach and mushroom orzo hot, garnished with extra red pepper flakes or Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy your meal—it’s delightful!
Can I Substitute the Orzo with Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for the best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this creamy orzo vegan, simply use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. This will still give you a deliciously creamy texture without any animal products!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the creaminess, when reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the dish. Warm it on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and mushrooms to ensure they’re cooked through!
