Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and flavorful. The richness of the cream combines with garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning to create a delectable sauce that coats the orzo perfectly. Plus, it's made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! It's an ideal dish for busy evenings, yet it tastes like something you'd find at a restaurant. You can also customize it by adding extra veggies, protein, or cheese for a twist.

Ingredients

• Orzo

• Spinach (fresh or frozen)

• Mushrooms (baby bella, crimini, white, or portobello)

• Heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• Olive oil

• Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• Italian seasoning

• Smoked paprika

• Garlic (minced)

• Salt and pepper

• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté until softened.

2. Add garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.

3. Stir in the orzo, then add the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.

4. Once the orzo is cooked through, stir in the heavy cream and spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve warm, optionally garnished with grated cheese or fresh herbs.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add extra vegetables such as kale, broccoli, bell peppers, or arugula.

• For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

• Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra flavor.

• Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Freezer: This dish is not ideal for freezing as the cream sauce may separate.

• Reheat: To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a little extra cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, farfalle, or even rice if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dish.

3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, oat milk, or almond milk. Be sure to use a non-dairy broth as well.

4. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even seared steak to make it a more filling meal.

5. What can I use instead of chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water if you don't have any broth available.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free orzo, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

7. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

8. Can I freeze creamy spinach and mushroom orzo?

It's not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate once thawed.

9. Can I add other vegetables to the orzo?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, peas, or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.

10. What other spices can I add to this dish?

Feel free to experiment with additional spices like thyme, basil, or oregano to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and a creamy texture, all in just one pan. Whether you're looking for a quick meal or a side dish to complement your main course, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.