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Creamy Mushroom Orzo – Easy Parmesan One-Pan Recipe

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This mushroom orzo is creamy, dreamy, and delicious! With tender mushrooms, pasta, cream, and Parmesan, it’s just to die for.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 pound mixed mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 large shallot, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 1⁄2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1⁄2 cup dry white wine
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. (About 5-7 minutes.) Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo to the pan and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in the white wine and let simmer for a minute. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked mushrooms. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Add the spinach, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the spinach wilts.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the orzo seems too dry, add a splash of broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Don’t cook the orzo beforehand. Just toast it as directed in step 3.
  • Use whatever mushroom varieties you like best, but cut them into similar sizes.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the mushrooms.
  • Add fully cooked meats for extra protein, or use more veggies and herbs.

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