Go Back
To create a delicious Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo, you'll need the following simple ingredients: - 1 cup orzo pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button) - 2 cups fresh spinach leaves - 1 cup vegetable broth - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving) - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish Each item adds flavor and texture to the dish. The orzo pasta serves as a base, soaking up the creamy sauce. Olive oil helps sauté the onion and garlic, giving a rich taste. Fresh mushrooms add earthiness, while spinach brings color and nutrients. The vegetable broth and cream create that creamy texture we all love. Thyme and nutmeg add depth, while Parmesan cheese, if you choose to add it, gives a savory finish. Fresh parsley brightens the dish and makes it look appealing. Gather these ingredients to get started on your flavorful journey! {{ingredient_image_1}} - First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. - Bring the water to a boil. - Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the boiling water. - Cook the orzo until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. - Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside. - In the same pot, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - Heat the oil over medium heat. - Chop and add 1 medium onion to the pot. - Sauté the onion until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. - Next, mince 3 cloves of garlic and add them to the pot. - Slice 8 ounces of mushrooms and add them too. - Cook until the mushrooms are tender and slightly browned, about 5-6 minutes. - Now, add 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves to the pot. - Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. - Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. - Stir the mixture, bringing it to a gentle simmer. - Wait until the spinach wilts, then add the cooked orzo back to the pot. - Mix everything well, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - If you like, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts. - Remove from heat and let stand for a minute before serving. To avoid overcooked orzo, watch the clock closely. Cook it until it’s just al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Stir it often to keep it from sticking. Drain it quickly and set it aside. This keeps the orzo firm and tasty. To ensure the mushrooms are browned, slice them evenly. Heat the olive oil over medium heat before adding them. Let them cook without stirring too often. This helps them brown nicely, adding flavor to your dish. For extra flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or crushed red pepper. These can give your orzo a nice kick. Fresh herbs like basil or dill also work well. They add a fresh taste that brightens the dish. If you want a vegan option, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This keeps the dish rich and creamy. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese instead. This way, everyone can enjoy the creamy mushroom spinach orzo. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh mushrooms and spinach. They add a vibrant taste and enhance the overall dish. Customize Your Cream: If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a vegan touch. Enhance Flavor with Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra layer of richness and umami flavor. Add a Crunch: For texture contrast, serve with toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top right before serving. {{image_2}} You can switch up the pasta for more fun. Try using penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles. Each brings a new taste and texture. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works great. It adds a hint of sweetness and creaminess. You can also use almond or cashew milk, but cut back on the broth. Want to make this dish heartier? Add chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Just cook them in the pot before adding the mushrooms. If you're using shrimp, they only need a few minutes until they turn pink. If you prefer plant-based options, tofu or chickpeas work well. For tofu, press it first to remove excess water, then sauté until golden. Chickpeas add a nice bite and extra fiber. To keep your creamy mushroom spinach orzo fresh, you need to store it right. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. After that, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and smells out. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. For freezing, portion the orzo into smaller containers. Make sure the containers are freezer-safe. The orzo can last up to three months in the freezer. Just label each container with the date. This way, you can enjoy it later without worrying about spoilage. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. The best method is to use a stove. Just add the orzo to a pot over medium heat. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water. This helps bring back the creamy texture. Stir it frequently until it’s hot. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Place the orzo in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a little broth or water, cover it, and heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure it warms evenly. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo in advance. Cook it fully, cool it, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for about three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. What can I serve with Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo? This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. You could also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Try serving it with a side of roasted veggies for a colorful plate. How can I make this dish spicier? To add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also use spicy mushrooms or add hot sauce to the cream. Another option is to mix in chopped jalapeños for a fresh kick. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Just swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn. Always check the label to ensure it fits your needs. This blog covered everything you need for Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo. We explored key ingredients and how to cook them perfectly. I shared tips to keep your orzo tender and your mushrooms golden. We also discussed variations and protein options to fit your taste. Lastly, I included storage methods and answers to common questions. Enjoy making this dish your own, and savor the rich flavors!

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo

Savor the deliciousness of creamy mushroom spinach orzo, a perfect blend of flavors in an easy orzo recipe. This vegetarian orzo dish is cooked in one pot, making it a hassle-free weeknight meal. With sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach, this orzo with spinach and mushrooms is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. Try this recipe today and enjoy a quick, hearty dinner. Save for later and share with fellow food lovers! #VegetarianRecipes #PastaLovers #OrzoRecipes #OnePotPasta
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)

2 cups fresh spinach leaves

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

      Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and beginning to brown, about 5-6 minutes.

        Stir in the fresh spinach, vegetable broth, heavy cream, thyme, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

          Once the spinach has wilted, add the cooked orzo to the pot. Stir well to combine everything, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

            Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.

              Remove from heat and let stand for a minute. Serve the creamy mushroom spinach orzo in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4