There is something truly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it is as vibrant and flavorful as this Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe. Combining tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all swirled together with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of butter, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and taste. Not only is it quick to make, but it is also versatile, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch option that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe plays a key role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color. The list is short and simple, but each item brings its own magic to the plate.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Enhances the dish’s creaminess with luscious depth.
- Small yellow onion (finely chopped): Provides a mild sweetness and fragrant base flavor.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Offers a warm, savory punch that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
- Cremini or button mushrooms (sliced): Contributes an earthy, meaty texture that makes the dish hearty.
- Orzo pasta (uncooked): The star ingredient, tiny pasta that absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: Keeps the dish light and flavorful without overpowering saltiness.
- Fresh baby spinach: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly sweet note.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance all flavors.
- Optional red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a gentle kick of heat.
How to Make Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add your finely chopped onion and cook it gently for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to soften and become translucent without browning. Next, stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and let them sauté for 6 to 8 minutes. This slow cooking encourages the mushrooms to release their moisture and start to brown, which deepens their flavor and adds a lovely texture to your final dish.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Once the mushrooms have that gorgeous golden-brown color, stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Cook the orzo for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring regularly, so it gets lightly toasted. This step adds a subtle nuttiness and gives the pasta a firmer bite once cooked.
Step 3: Simmer the Orzo in Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let everything cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. By the end of this time, the orzo should be perfectly tender yet still hold its shape, and most of the liquid should be absorbed, resulting in a creamy, rich texture.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish with Cheese
Now it’s time to fold in the fresh baby spinach. Cook it for 1 to 2 minutes until it wilts into the pasta, turning this dish into a bright, green delight. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts into the warm pasta creating that irresistible creaminess. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you’d like a little extra zing, sprinkle in some optional red pepper flakes.
How to Serve Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowl, consider sprinkling more freshly grated Parmesan on top or adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh basil can introduce a delightful crunch and fresh herbal notes that brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up every delicious drop. For a protein boost, a simple grilled chicken breast or a handful of roasted chickpeas on the side complement the comfort-food vibe perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe in warm bowls for a cozy, inviting experience. Alternatively, layer it in a shallow baking dish, top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and broil until golden for a delightful baked orzo casserole twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover orzo pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but because of the spinach and Parmesan, the texture may change slightly after thawing. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm and creamy. This ensures the pasta stays tender and doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use different mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini or button mushrooms are recommended for their mild flavor and texture, you can experiment with shiitake, oyster, or even portobello slices to bring unique earthiness to the dish.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! Simply swap out the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative to make your Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe completely vegan without losing any flavor.
Can I add protein to this meal?
Definitely. Adding cooked chickpeas, white beans, or shredded rotisserie chicken can turn this pasta into a more substantial meal, making it perfect for lunch or dinner on busier days.
What can I substitute for orzo if needed?
If you can’t find orzo, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous can work as alternatives. Keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo-style pasta made from rice or corn at many stores to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s a warm, inviting magic to this Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe that makes it such a joy to cook and eat. It’s straightforward yet packed with flavor and can easily be tailored to suit your pantry or preferences. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or a special meal for friends, this recipe is bound to become one of your favorites just like it has become mine. Give it a try, and let it bring a little comfort and brightness to your table!
Print
Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a comforting and simple one-pot meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Sautéed mushrooms and spinach are combined with tender orzo pasta cooked in savory vegetable broth, finished with creamy Parmesan cheese. It’s a flavorful vegetarian dish that requires minimal prep and is ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Pantry Staples
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- optional red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Sauté onion: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown, stirring occasionally.
- Toast orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to slightly toast the pasta and develop flavor.
- Simmer orzo: Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Wilt spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted but remains vibrant green.
- Finish and season: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat.
- Serve: Serve this flavorful orzo pasta warm as a comforting main course or a satisfying side dish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Add a splash of cream or non-dairy milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Boost protein by stirring in cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken before serving.
