Creamy Mushroom Orzo Pasta | Easy One-Pot Meal & Comfort Food
Rustic Mushroom & Herb Orzo Delight
Ingredients
Method
- Warm the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic along with the sliced mushrooms, and cook for approximately 7 minutes. Allow the mushrooms to release their moisture and reduce nearly by half, intensifying their earthy flavor.
- Sprinkle in the salt, dried thyme, dried parsley, and pepper. Stir in the orzo, and let it toast slightly for about 2 minutes until a pleasant nutty aroma develops.
- Pour in the chicken broth and half & half. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 minutes – stirring every few minutes to ensure even cooking without over-stirring the pasta.
- When the orzo is tender and has absorbed the creamy sauce, fold in the chopped baby spinach and parmesan cheese. Cook until the spinach wilts, then finish with a garnish of fresh parsley before serving.
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Rustic Mushroom & Herb Orzo Delight is a reimagined classic comfort food that shines with toasted orzo, savory mushrooms, and a velvety cream sauce enriched with aromatic herbs. Perfect as a side or a hearty main, this dish is sure to impress anyone looking for elevated comfort cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich & Savory: Creamy, mushroom-packed orzo with a delightful toasted twist.
- Comfort Food Elevated: Enjoy the warmth of a classic dish enhanced with fresh herbs and a gourmet touch.
- Flexible Serving Option: Ideal as a main course or a lavish side paired beautifully with dishes like air fryer steak or garlic butter chicken. Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based alternatives to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Embracing the Magic of Mushrooms
I once wasn’t a fan of mushrooms, but now I can’t imagine a plate without them. Their ability to soak up flavors transforms this orzo into an unforgettable dish. The harmonious blend of garlic, herbs, and a hint of toasted pasta elevates every bite. You simply must try it!
Ingredients Needed
How to Create Your Rustic Orzo
This method streamlines the process into a few simple yet innovative steps. The magic happens in one pan where every ingredient gets its moment under the heat, creating a dish that promises flavor and texture in every bite.
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Sauté the Base: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
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Boost the Mushroom Flavor: Incorporate 2 teaspoons minced garlic and 16 ounces sliced mushrooms into the skillet. Cook over medium heat for roughly 7 minutes until the mushrooms release ample liquid and reduce by half.
- Introduce Seasonings & Toast the Orzo: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried parsley, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Add 1 cup dried orzo pasta and allow it to toast for 2 minutes, stirring gently to infuse it with a nutty aroma.
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Create the Creamy Base: Pour in 1 ½ cups chicken broth and ⅔ cup half & half. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
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Final Touches: Once the orzo is tender, stir in 2 cups chopped baby spinach and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese. Continue cooking until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a velvety sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Special Tips & Variations
- Give Your Mushrooms Room: For the best caramelization and flavor, avoid overcrowding your skillet. Use a larger pan if needed to let them sear properly.
- Toasting the Orzo: If you love a nutty nuance, remove the mushrooms briefly and toast the orzo alone for a couple of minutes before reuniting them with the sauce.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If you prefer fresh herbs, substitute by using 1 ½ teaspoons of finely chopped fresh herbs for every ½ teaspoon of dried herbs.
- Extra Cheesy: Feel free to add more parmesan to heighten the creamy, cheesy experience.
Leftovers & Serving Ideas
This dish reheats beautifully for a comforting lunch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between sessions. For an even heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken when reheating.
More Amazing Mushroom Recipes
Mushrooms add depth and earthiness to countless dishes. Try out recipes like creamy shrimp mushroom pasta, rich risotto, or a luscious cream of mushroom soup. These recipes are sure to convert even the reluctant mushroom skeptics!
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