Description
This creamy spinach and mushroom Italian orzo is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender orzo pasta is cooked in savory broth and mixed with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Sautéed Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups baby spinach
Creamy Elements & Seasoning
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil, combining them to create a flavorful base for sautéing.
- Sauté mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they turn golden brown and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, releasing its aromatic flavor.
- Toast the orzo: Incorporate the orzo pasta into the skillet and toast it lightly by stirring for about 2 minutes. This step enhances the orzo’s nutty flavor.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate creamy ingredients and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken to a creamy consistency.
- Season and finish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve the dish hot.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for extra richness.
- Button or cremini mushrooms work best, but you can use any mild mushroom variety.
- For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
