Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Creamy, comforting, and bursting with earthy flavor, this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is a simple yet elegant one-pot meal you’ll want to make again and again. Tender orzo pasta is simmered to perfection with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, and a velvety parmesan cream sauce. Whether you serve it as a hearty main or a flavorful side, this dish is the perfect combination of rich, savory, and wholesome.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Creamy Without Heavy Cream – Just the right richness using broth and cheese.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples.
Vegetarian Comfort Food – Satisfying and nourishing, no meat needed.
Perfect Side or Main – Pairs well with roasted meats or stands strong on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Orzo Base:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work great)
• 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Finish:

• 2 cups baby spinach
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
• 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater or zester
• Ladle or serving spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in garlic and mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, until mushrooms are browned and tender.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and butter mixture.
Cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta for extra flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the vegetable broth and milk.
Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese
Stir in the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
If desired, stir in lemon zest for a fresh citrus note.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese as needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving warm.

Tips for Success
Stir Often – Prevents sticking and ensures creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook – Orzo should be tender but not mushy.
Use Fresh Parmesan – Melts better and adds deeper flavor than pre-shredded.
Add More Veggies – Try peas, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
Make It Vegan – Use plant-based milk and cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions
As a Main Dish – Serve with crusty bread and a side salad.
With Grilled Chicken – A great protein pairing for a balanced meal.
Next to Fish – Especially salmon or white fish with lemon butter.
As a Holiday Side – A fresh, creamy addition to your table spread.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month. Let thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta?
   Yes! Small shapes like couscous or ditalini work, but cooking times may vary.
2. Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
   Absolutely. Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu at the end.
3. What kind of mushrooms work best?
   Cremini, white button, or shiitake all work beautifully.
4. Can I make it without milk?
   Yes. Use all broth, or substitute a non-dairy milk for a lighter, still creamy result.
5. Can I make it ahead?
   Yes, but it thickens as it sits. Reheat with a little broth to loosen it up before serving.

Final Thoughts
This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a chef in your own kitchen—simple, elegant, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meatless Mondays, or whenever you need a comforting, creamy dish with a gourmet twist.

Give it a try tonight and don’t forget to share your bowl of comfort online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 servings):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 420mg

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