Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach & Mushrooms
Hey there, friend! Let me introduce you to your new favorite one-pot wonder: Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach & Mushrooms.
This dish is the epitome of cozy comfort food, but with a fresh, veggie-packed twist.
Imagine tender orzo pasta swimming in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, studded with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach.
It’s rich, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
1. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them cook until golden and tender. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
2. Cook the Orzo
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for a minute or two. This step adds a nutty depth of flavor to the dish. Then, pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the Spinach and Cream
Once the orzo is almost cooked, fold in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the mixture. Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy.
4. Season and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Give it a final stir, then serve hot with extra Parmesan on top. Voilà—dinner is served!
Pro Tips
- Use baby bella mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor.
- Toast the orzo before adding the broth to enhance its nuttiness.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer a lighter version.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
- This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce, so enjoy it fresh!
Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach & Mushrooms
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach & Mushrooms is a quick, one-pot meal that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Fold in spinach and let it wilt into the mixture.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 12g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For a vegan version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- If the sauce thickens too much upon standing, stir in a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
