I prepared a refined Mushroom Orzo Risotto that pairs tender orzo pasta with crimini mushrooms, diced yellow onion, and peas. The subtle touch of dry white wine and Parmesan cheese creates a distinctive medley that turns a simple rice side into an enticing culinary twist. Stay intrigued as you read on.

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I recently whipped up this Creamy Stovetop Mushroom Orzo and I have to say its flavors totally won me over. I started by sautéing a diced small yellow onion and two cloves of minced garlic in a mix of olive oil and butter until they got soft and aromatic.

Then I tossed in 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with orzo pasta and let them mingle, adding a splash of dry white wine to brighten it up. I also stirred in a cup of peas as they brought a pop of color and freshness.

Next, I slowly added 2 cups of broth and a half cup of heavy cream to create a cheesy, dreamy sauce with a generous 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. I seasoned everything with salt and black pepper.

This dish is like an orzo risotto with mushrooms that makes a great rice side replacement and reminds me of a perfect blend between hearty and elegant flavors. Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe because it’s so simple to put together when I’m short on time and still want something delicious. I mean, the creamy blend of mushrooms, peas, and that Parmesan cheese is just the right mix of comfort and flavor that makes my taste buds happy every time. I also like how the white wine gives it this little extra kick that makes it taste kinda fancy without being too over the top. And honestly, the whole process is super straightforward, so it’s just perfect for a quick dinner that still feels special.

Ingredients

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Orzo Pasta: provides carbohydrates for fuel and energy, light and delightful in texture.
Mushrooms: offer fibre, vitamins, and earthy flavor that adds depth and umami to the dish.
Yellow Onion: rich in antioxidants, its natural sweetness mellows herby notes and enhances overall taste.
Garlic: boosts flavor with its subtle heat and adds beneficial properties for immune support.
Peas: deliver protein and fiber, bursting with natural sweetness and a vibrant green touch.
Olive Oil: infuses healthy fats and antioxidants while deepening the dish’s aromatic profile.
Parmesan Cheese: adds protein and calcium with a rich, tangy, and creamy finish.

Ingredient Quantities

1 cup orzo pasta

8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button mushrooms work great)

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp olive oil

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional but adds a great flavor)

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make this

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1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter.

2. Toss in the diced onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft, then add the 8 oz sliced mushrooms (if they are wet, pat them dry first) and cook them until they start to brown.

3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and let them cook for about a minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine, if you are using it, and let it simmer until it reduces by about half while scraping up any bits off the bottom.

5. Add 1 cup orzo pasta and 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth. Stir it all together and bring it to a simmer.

6. Let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nearly tender and most of the broth is absorbed.

7. Stir in 1 cup peas and 1/2 cup heavy cream, cooking for another 2 minutes so the peas warm up and the sauce thickens.

8. Mix in 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until everything looks creamy and smooth.

9. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, giving it a good stir to spread the flavors evenly.

10. Serve it right away with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you want a fresh garnish, then enjoy your creamy stovetop mushroom orzo!

Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Sharp knife
4. Cutting board
5. Stirring spoon or spatula
6. Garlic mincer (or use your knife to mince)
7. Cheese grater

This list covers the main tools you need to prep and cook the recipe.

FAQ

Q: Can I use different types of mushrooms?

A: Yeah, you can easily substitute the mushrooms in this recipe. Feel free to try portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a deeper flavour.

Q: What if I don't have dry white wine?

A: No worries, you can leave that out or replace it with extra broth. It might change the flavour a bit but will still be really tasty.

Q: Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

A: Absolutely, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and youre good to go!

Q: Is there any way to make it healthier?

A: Sure thing, you can swap heavy cream with a lower-fat cream or even a splash of milk if you want a lighter version, though the sauce may be a bit less creamy.

Q: How should I store leftovers?

A: Let the orzo cool completely then put in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

Creamy Stovetop Mushroom Orzo Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Instead of orzo pasta, you could use rice or couscous even though they have a slightly different texture and flavor.
If you dont have cremini or white button mushrooms, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a deeper taste.
For heavy cream, you can use coconut cream if you need a dairy-free option, but be aware it may add a hint of coconut flavor.
If you prefer not to use white wine, try a splash of apple cider vinegar or even a bit of lemon juice for that acidic kick in the recipe.
Instead of butter, you could use extra olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if thats what your heart desires.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure to pat your mushrooms completely dry before cooking so they brown nicely instead of steaming, which can lead to a soggy dish.
2. When you add the white wine, be sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the pan; this brings loads of flavor into your dish that you might otherwise miss.
3. Stir the orzo regularly as it cooks to prevent it from sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan; it may sound tedious, but it’ll really help the texture.
4. Adding the peas and cream near the end is key—this way, the peas stay firm and the cream gives you that smooth, rich sauce without overcooking the pasta.