Creamy, savory, and full of comforting flavor—this one-skillet Mushroom and Spinach Orzo is a weeknight dinner hero. Packed with sautéed mushrooms, tender orzo pasta, wilted spinach, and Parmesan, it’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup

• Ready in under 30 minutes

• Comforting and hearty without being heavy

• Vegetarian and easy to adapt

• Great as a main dish or a side

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~280 per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft and lightly browned.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Tips & Variations

• Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, tofu, or white beans for a protein boost.

• Use different greens: Kale or arugula work great in place of spinach.

• Make it creamier: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini work best. Adjust liquid and cook time as needed.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely. Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before stirring it in.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom and Spinach Orzo is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and wholesome simplicity. Whether served as a main or a side, this creamy, one-pan pasta dish will quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.