Dinner

Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Name: Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8oz / 225g orzo pasta; 1oz / 25g dried shiitake mushrooms or 4.5oz / 125g fresh shiitake mushrooms; 8oz / 225g cremini mushrooms; 1 small onion; 4 garlic cloves; 2.5 cups baby spinach; 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred); ¾ cup milk of choice (unsweetened soy milk recommended); 2oz / 55g freshly grated parmesan cheese or vegan parmesan; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste

Byanna orden December 26, 2025December 26, 2025

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Introduction

This creamy Mushroom Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining tender orzo pasta with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a touch of parmesan creates a satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.

A close-up view of creamy orzo pasta mixed with sautéed sliced mushrooms and small pieces of green spinach, all combined in a light and glossy sauce. The orzo is pale yellow with a soft texture, layered evenly with the brown mushrooms and scattered green spinach leaves, topped with fine shreds of white cheese and small specks of black pepper. A wooden spoon is partially visible, scooping a portion from the mixture on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8oz (225g) orzo pasta
8oz (225g) cremini mushrooms
1oz (25g) dried shiitake mushrooms or 4.5oz (125g) fresh shiitake mushrooms
1 small onion
4 garlic cloves
3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
¾ cup milk of choice (unsweetened soy milk recommended)
2oz (55g) freshly grated parmesan cheese or vegan parmesan
2.5 cups baby spinach
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: If using dried shiitake mushrooms, rinse them to remove any dust. Place them in a bowl, cover with water, and weigh down with a plate to keep submerged. Soak for at least 1 hour. Remove any large stems for faster hydration.
Step 2: Finely dice the onion and garlic. Chop the spinach and slice the cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
Step 3: In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and all the mushrooms. Cook together for 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms brown.
Step 4: Season with salt and black pepper. Remove half of the mushrooms to a plate and set aside.
Step 5: Add the orzo to the pan and toast for 1 minute. Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, then cover and simmer on low heat until the orzo is al dente, about 7 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the lid and stir in the spinach, reserved mushrooms, milk, and grated parmesan. Increase heat to medium and stir gently until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes. The mixture will thicken to a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy your creamy Mushroom Orzo.

Tips & Variations

Try using vegetable broth infused with herbs for extra flavor.
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a different leafy green.
Use vegan parmesan and plant-based milk to make this dish dairy-free.
Toast the orzo longer for a nuttier flavor before adding broth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the creamy sauce.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy orzo pasta mixed with sautéed sliced mushrooms and chopped green herbs evenly spread throughout. The orzo is light yellow and coated in a smooth, glossy sauce. Thin shreds of white cheese are scattered on top, adding texture. A wooden spoon is partially lifting a portion of the dish from a white marbled surface visible underneath. The colors include soft browns from the mushrooms, vibrant greens from herbs, and the pale yellow of the pasta. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other mushrooms instead of cremini and shiitake?

Yes, you can use any mushrooms you like such as button, portobello, or oyster mushrooms. Each variety will bring its own unique flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to soak dried shiitake mushrooms?

Yes, soaking rehydrates dried shiitake mushrooms and enhances their texture and flavor. It’s best to soak them for at least one hour before cooking.

anna orden