Description
A cozy and savory dish featuring tender orzo, browned mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Orzo (risoni) (Tiny pasta that cooks fast and turns creamy when simmered.)
- 8 oz Mushrooms (baby bella or cremini) (Can use any mushroom mix.)
- 2 tbsp Butter (Used for flavor.)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (Prevents butter from burning.)
- 1 medium Onion or shallot (Chop for sweetness.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; non-negotiable.)
- 4 cups Broth (chicken or vegetable) (Whichever fits your dinner plan.)
- 1/2 cup Cream or Boursin (For creaminess; can use dairy-free options.)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (For added flavor.)
- 2 cups Spinach (Optional, for color and freshness.)
- 1 tbsp Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, basil) (For finishing touch.)
Aromatics & Spices
- 1 tsp Salt (To taste.)
- 1 tsp Black pepper (To taste.)
- 1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper (Optional, for warmth.)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (To brighten the flavors.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and a little butter.
- Add sliced mushrooms, spreading them out to avoid steaming. Let them brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Once browned, stir in salt and pepper and set mushrooms aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion or shallot. Cook until soft, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add orzo to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
Cooking
- Pour in warm broth, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender but still has a bite (about 10-12 minutes).
- If it looks dry, add a splash more broth.
Finishing Touches
- Turn off the heat and stir in cream or Boursin and Parmesan cheese until glossy.
- Add spinach and let it wilt from the heat. Finish with chopped herbs and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Avoid washing mushrooms directly under water to prevent sogginess; use a damp cloth to clean them. For a lighter sauce, skip the cream and use more broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian