Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach

Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach: The Ultimate One-Pot Pasta Dish


  • Author: Anele
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A delicious one-pot creamy mushroom orzo dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and can be easily adapted for vegans or made more protein-rich.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 1 lb mixed mushrooms (cremini recommended)
  • 3 tbsp butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or plant-based alternative)
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Clean and slice mushrooms. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add mushrooms to the pan and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and shallot, cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add orzo to the pan and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, cream, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, use olive oil instead of butter, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and plant-based cream alternative.
  • Add protein by including grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
  • This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it excellent for meal prep.
  • If reheating, add a splash of broth or water as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: mushroom orzo, creamy pasta, one-pot meal, vegetarian, meal prep