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Creamy Mushroom Orzo Recipe

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4.8 from 46 reviews

Creamy Mushroom Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with sautéed mushrooms, vegetable broth, and a luscious blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This simple yet elegant recipe delivers a rich and creamy texture perfect for a quick dinner or side dish.

Ingredients

Pasta & Grains

  • 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

Vegetables

  • 12 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pantry

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Sauté Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until they are golden brown and tender.
  2. Toast Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo and toast it for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and enhance its nutty flavor.
  3. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Emulsify Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Cook while stirring for 3 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and the orzo is fully cooked. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Final Rest: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish stand for 3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.

Notes

  • Use cremini mushrooms for a richer flavor or white mushrooms for a milder taste.
  • Freshly grate Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor in the sauce.
  • Stir the orzo frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a vegan cream alternative.
  • This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.