Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy? Our Creamy Stovetop Mushroom Orzo is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the velvety goodness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that serves four, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering. Get ready to savor every bite and leave your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: orzo pasta, vegetable broth, sliced mushrooms, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Once the broth is boiling, add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the saucepan. Stir gently to prevent the orzo from sticking together.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the orzo simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the orzo is cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the mushrooms are cooked, lower the heat and add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until heated through.
- When the orzo is ready, remove it from the heat and gently fold it into the skillet with the creamy mushroom mixture. Stir until the orzo is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it is melted and fully incorporated into the dish.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- To serve, spoon the creamy mushroom orzo into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Enjoy your delicious creamy stovetop mushroom orzo as a comforting main dish or a delightful side!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop your mushrooms and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and make it even easier to whip up this delicious dish.
- Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for added depth of flavor. Each variety brings a unique taste that can elevate your orzo.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more heavy cream or vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that the orzo will absorb some of the liquid.
- Herb Infusion: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the mushrooms. This will infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
- Garnishing Tips: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this side dish into a main course, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even spinach for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
