Name: Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

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If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in under half an hour, look no further than this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo. It’s a one-pan wonder that marries tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a dreamy Parmesan sauce, making it both easy enough for busy weeknights and special enough to impress dinner guests. Every forkful is rich, savory, and loaded with comforting flavors that practically guarantee you’ll be making this recipe again and again.

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s so much flavor packed into a handful of staple ingredients! Each one plays an essential role: the spark of garlic, the creaminess of butter and cheese, the heartiness of mushrooms, and the bright finish of spinach. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo:

Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Enhance the vegetables’ flavor with a touch of this fruity oil as your base.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds silkiness to the sauce and gives the mushrooms a golden edge.
Onion, finely diced (1 small): Forms a mildly sweet foundation that balances the savory flavors.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Brightens every bite with aromatic depth—don’t skimp!
Cremini or button mushrooms, sliced (8 ounces): The star of the show, bringing earthiness and a meaty texture.
Orzo pasta, uncooked (1 cup): This rice-shaped pasta cooks up tender and absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
Vegetable or chicken broth (3 cups): Infuses the orzo with richness as it simmers.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy—swap with half-and-half for a lighter take.
Fresh spinach, roughly chopped (3 cups): Brings color and a nutritious boost, wilting just perfectly into the sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds umami and thickens everything up with salty, cheesy goodness.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Don’t forget to season—taste and tweak as you go!
Red pepper flakes, pinch (optional): Include for a gentle heat and extra complexity if you like a little kick.

How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Step 1: Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Mushrooms

Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and begins to foam, toss in the finely diced onion. Let it soften for about 3 minutes; you’ll begin to smell its sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so you don’t burn it. Next up are the sliced mushrooms: add them and let them cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes, until they’re browned and have released their moisture. This step deepens the flavor base for our Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Add your dry orzo directly into the pan and give it a good stir, letting it toast for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the orzo is a simple trick that amplifies its nutty flavor and really takes the Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo to another level. Make sure to stir frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick or burn.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in your broth—whether vegetable or chicken—and bring it to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, turn the heat down so it simmers. Stir every couple of minutes and let the orzo absorb almost all of the broth, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the orzo to be just al dente, tender but with a hint of bite. The magic here is that the orzo cooks right in the skillet, soaking up all that savory flavor for the ultimate Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo texture.

Step 4: Stir in Cream, Spinach, and Cheese

Once the orzo is just right and most of the liquid is absorbed, gently stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and grated Parmesan. Watch as the spinach wilts and the sauce transforms into a creamy, glossy blanket. Stir until the spinach has collapsed and the sauce is thickened—2 to 3 minutes is all you need. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like a touch of heat. That’s it—your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is ready to devour!

How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan and a crack of black pepper really make the finished dish pop. For a touch of freshness, scatter over some finely chopped parsley or basil—the green flecks look gorgeous against the luscious orzo, making your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo as inviting to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Side Dishes

This comforting orzo is hearty enough to star as a main course, but it also shines alongside simple roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a crisp salad. For a true Italian-inspired feast, serve with garlic bread or a side of marinated tomatoes. The flavors in Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo complement almost any protein you love.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, spoon the orzo into individual ramekins and finish under the broiler with a dusting of Parmesan for a bubbly top. Or, serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe that invites everyone to dig in. However you plate it, you’ll be serving up smiles with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo keeps beautifully in the fridge. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and store for up to 3–4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb a little liquid as it sits, but the flavors only get more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo for those nights when you need dinner on the fly. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When sealed tightly, it will keep for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the cream sauce may slightly change texture, but it’ll still be tasty.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen things up and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring often. You can also microwave it in increments, stirring between each burst. Taste and season again if needed—this revives the creamy, silky finish that makes Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course, Side Dish

Short-cut pastas like small shells, ditalini, or even arborio rice can work beautifully here. Just adjust the liquid and cook time as needed to achieve that classic creamy, risotto-like feel of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use a non-dairy butter alternative, swap the heavy cream for canned coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based creamer, and choose a vegan Parmesan. You’ll still enjoy that velvety Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo texture and taste.

How can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Fold in cooked chicken, shrimp, white beans, or even some sautéed Italian sausage for a protein-packed spin. Each adds its own character while keeping Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo the star of the plate.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well—just thaw and squeeze out any excess liquid before stirring in. Add near the end of cooking and allow a minute or two for it to blend into the sauce of your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo.

What’s the best way to avoid mushy orzo?

Cook the orzo just until al dente and keep an eye on the pan as it simmers. Stir regularly and add a splash more broth if it’s drying out before the pasta is tender. This way, your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo stays perfectly creamy, never soggy.

Final Thoughts

There’s a certain magic in creamy, cozy pasta dishes, and this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo never fails to deliver. I hope you’ll give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a regular comfort-food favorite at your table!

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo recipe. This easy-to-make meal combines tender orzo pasta with earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce for a satisfying main course or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil and butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Toast orzo: Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add broth and simmer: Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer until orzo is al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
Stir in cream and spinach: Add heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until spinach wilts and sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.