This creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is comfort food in a bowl! It’s packed with tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms, all wrapped in a rich and smooth sauce.
Honestly, every bite feels like a warm hug! I love whipping this up on busy nights—it’s quick, easy, and so satisfying. Plus, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for creamy dishes. If you don’t have orzo, you can use rice or another small pasta like ditalini or even couscous. They each have a slightly different texture, but the dish will still be delicious!
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor. However, white button mushrooms work just as well. For a twist, try adding shiitake or portobello. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you could substitute with zucchini or bell peppers.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my go-to because it wilts beautifully. If you only have frozen spinach, that’s fine too! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess water before adding it to the dish.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the dish rich and creamy! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The key to a fantastic creamy sauce starts with the right technique! After cooking your vegetables and orzo, pour in the heavy cream over low heat to prevent it from boiling. This helps to create a smooth texture. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure to stir gently and continuously after adding the cream to evenly distribute it.
- Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing it to thicken a bit.
- Incorporating the cheese last ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, splash in a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy whipping up this comforting dish!
Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or white button), sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra creaminess
- Optional garnish: extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy spinach mushroom orzo takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Cooking the Base:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you smell that delicious aroma. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally until they release moisture and start to brown, which will take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Pour the orzo pasta into the skillet and give it a good stir. This toasting step might seem small, but it helps enhance the flavor! Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Add the vegetable (or chicken) broth to the pan and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add Spinach and Cream:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and let it cook for about 2 minutes until it wilts down. Lower the heat again and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything, making sure the cream is well mixed in.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Now for that creamy goodness! Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and everything becomes creamy. If you want an extra boost of richness, toss in the optional butter and stir to combine.
7. Season and Serve:
Don’t forget the seasoning! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Now, you’re ready to serve! Dish your creamy spinach mushroom orzo into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley if you’d like. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your creamy, comforting spinach mushroom orzo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni. If using rice, adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! However, to ensure it meets all your dietary needs, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, which you already have as an option.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach or Mushrooms?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach or mushrooms! For spinach, simply thaw and drain it well before adding it to the orzo. For mushrooms, sauté them straight from frozen, but remember to add a few extra minutes of cooking time to help release their moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to bring the creaminess back!
