This creamy spinach mushroom orzo is a warm bowl of comfort! Packed with tasty mushrooms and fresh spinach, it’s rich and satisfying while being easy to whip up.
You know it’s a winner when it makes dinner feel like a cozy hug! 🍽️ I love making extra so I can enjoy it for lunch the next day. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for creamy dishes, but you can swap it with any small pasta like ditalini or even rice for a gluten-free option.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms or even portobello work well too! If you’re in a pinch, canned mushrooms are a nice alternative.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for its vibrant flavor. If you have frozen spinach, that’ll work too — just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, half-and-half is great. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version if you enjoy a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Get Creamy Orzo Without Overcooking It?
The secret to achieving a creamy texture is to avoid overcooking the orzo. Keep an eye on it while it simmers! Here are some tips:
- Cook orzo in vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor.
- Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking together.
- When it’s almost tender, add in the creamy ingredients. This way, you’ll take it off the heat just when it’s perfectly cooked.
This keeps the orzo from turning mushy and ensures a nice saucy consistency!
How to Make Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
Broth and Cream:
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Extras:
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy spinach mushroom orzo will take you about 20 minutes total – including prep and cooking time. Just a quick sauté, simmer, and mix, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This adds a lovely flavor base!
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook these for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re nice and browned and have released their moisture. They will add that savory umami flavor to the dish!
3. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it starts to smell wonderful. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Incorporate the Orzo:
Pour in the orzo pasta and give everything a good stir to coat it with the oil and mix with the veggies. This will help the pasta soak in all the flavors.
5. Add the Broth:
Now, pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so the orzo doesn’t stick together!
6. Stir in the Spinach:
When the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook it for another 2 minutes until it wilts down beautifully.
7. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter (if using). Mix everything well until it’s creamy and heated through.
8. Season to Taste:
Finish by adding salt and pepper according to your preference. Give it a good stir to combine!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy spinach mushroom orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if you like. It’s delicious and totally comforting!
Enjoy your creamy, delicious spinach mushroom orzo!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer to cook compared to regular orzo.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before stirring it into the orzo so the dish doesn’t become watery!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked zucchini, bell peppers, or even peas for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and mushrooms for the best results.
