Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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)

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired