Description
This Delicious One Pot Mushroom Orzo is a creamy, comforting Italian-inspired dish packed with tender cremini mushrooms, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Prepared entirely in a single pot, it simplifies the cooking process and cleanup while delivering a rich, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Seasonings
- 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Ingredients
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Heat fat and mushrooms: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until melted and hot. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned and tender.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Stir in the finely diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toast orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the pot and stir continuously for about 1 minute to lightly toast the pasta, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer orzo: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cream and cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Rest and thicken: Remove the pot from heat and let it stand uncovered for 2–3 minutes to allow the dish to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for garnish. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use baby bella, cremini, or a mix of wild mushrooms to add extra flavor complexity.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the Parmesan cheese is made with vegetarian rennet instead of animal-based enzymes.
- Add fresh spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking to boost the nutritional value and incorporate greens.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
