If you are after a comforting, quick, and absolutely delicious meal, this Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender orzo pasta soaking up all those rich, savory flavors from sautéed mushrooms and bright, fresh spinach — all melded together with garlic, Parmesan, and just a hint of spice. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want something wholesome without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish shine is its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, from the earthiness of mushrooms to the fresh pop of spinach and the creamy bite of Parmesan. Here’s what you’ll gather to create this magic in your kitchen:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps in sautéing and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings richness and silky texture when melted with olive oil.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a punchy, fragrant flavor that elevates everything.
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms (sliced): The star ingredient, providing umami depth and chewiness.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up flavors wonderfully.
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Adds moisture and infuses the orzo with a savory background note.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Freshens up the dish with vibrant color and mild earthiness.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Salt to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick if you like a bit of spice.
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness): A splash at the end that lifts the entire dish with a citrusy zing.
How to Make Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the butter melts, toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent — this step builds the flavor base. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious aroma filling your kitchen. Add the sliced mushrooms next, and sauté them for 5 to 6 minutes. You want the mushrooms to release their moisture and gently brown, adding that rich umami that defines this recipe.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Once your mushrooms are tender and beautifully golden, stir in the orzo pasta. Toasting the orzo for 1 to 2 minutes before adding the liquid gives it a lovely nutty dimension, enhancing the overall depth of flavor in this dish. Plus, it helps prevent the orzo from becoming mushy later on.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo in Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, turning up the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the orzo cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This method keeps the orzo wonderfully creamy as it cooks directly in the flavorful broth.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish with Cheese
After the orzo has cooked through, stir in the baby spinach. It will wilt quickly in the residual heat — about 1 to 2 minutes is enough. Turn off the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese; this addition melts into the dish, making everything silky and rich. Finally, season with black pepper, salt, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want just a little heat. For an extra burst of brightness, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice right before serving.
How to Serve Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is fabulous on its own but gets even better with thoughtful garnishes. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or some toasted pine nuts for crunch. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil can add a refreshing, aromatic touch. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few lemon zest curls also lift the flavors just before serving.
Side Dishes
Since this is a hearty yet light pasta, pair it with crisp, green salads dressed lightly with vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes make vibrant complements, adding texture and color. If you want a protein boost, grilled chicken or a simple baked fish alongside works beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve this orzo in individual rustic bowls, adding a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze themselves. You might also present it as a bed under seared scallops or sautéed shrimp for a more upscale look. Another fun idea is spooning it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful, edible bowl experience that’s bound to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor well, though the spinach will slightly soften over time, which only makes reheated servings cozy and comforting.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this dish because the texture of the cooked spinach and orzo can become a bit mushy after thawing. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within a month for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the pasta as needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Adding a little extra Parmesan when reheating freshens the creaminess beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cremini mushrooms are great, but you can also use button, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms depending on your preference. Each type will add a unique flavor twist to the dish.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
As written, this recipe includes butter and Parmesan cheese, which are not vegan. You can easily make it vegan by substituting butter for more olive oil and using a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even white beans for a boost of plant protein. Just add the cooked protein on top or mix it in right before serving.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
If you don’t have vegetable broth on hand, chicken broth or even water with added herbs and salt can work. Just keep in mind that broth brings a depth of flavor that plain water won’t provide.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper, and can I skip it?
Crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that balances the dish nicely but are completely optional. You can easily skip them if you prefer a milder flavor or adjust the amount to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor in one pot. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you’ll give it a try soon — it might just become your favorite weeknight dinner as it has become mine!
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Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a delicious and comforting one-pot Mediterranean-inspired dish, packed with tender orzo, savory mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients with straightforward stovetop cooking to deliver a flavorful and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups baby spinach
Finishing Ingredients
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened to create a flavorful base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the aroma and taste of the dish.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned, bringing out their rich, earthy flavor.
- Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1–2 minutes in the skillet, which adds a nutty depth to the pasta.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and combines well with the pasta.
- Finish and Season: Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the dish with black pepper, salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. For added brightness, add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
- Enhance the protein content by stirring in cooked chicken or white beans.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
