Jump to Recipe Print RecipeI can still hear my friend exclaiming, “Who knew orzo could be this good?” as she took her first bite of my Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach. It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a satisfyingly rich dish. This meal is not only quick—taking just 30 minutes from prep to table—but it’s also vegetarian comfort food at its finest. With the earthiness of mushrooms, the vibrant green of spinach, and the luscious, garlicky butter sauce, it transforms any ordinary weeknight into something special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, you’ll be amazed at how easily this dish becomes a repeat favorite. Curious to discover the magic of orzo? Let’s get cooking! Why is this Garlic Butter Orzo Special? Simplicity: This recipe is an absolute breeze, perfect for beginners or those bustling between activities. Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of buttery garlic, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach creates a mouthwatering experience that warms your soul. Time-Saving: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Versatility: Whether served as a main or side dish, it elegantly complements grilled chicken or pairs well with a crisp salad, making it a go-to for any occasion. Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about this dish, and you can even inspire them to try our Honey Butter Chicken or Garlic Chicken Zucchini as meal companions! Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Ingredients • Discover the delightful components that make this dish shine! For the Orzo Orzo Pasta – Provides a tender rice-shaped base; can substitute with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini. For the Flavor Base Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, creamy flavor; use salted butter if preferred but adjust added salt. Olive Oil – Prevents butter from burning while adding extra richness. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Offers a pungent, savory base flavor. Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Provides sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent. For the Vegetables Cremini or Button Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced) – Adds an earthy bite; ensure to cook until tender and moisture has evaporated. Fresh Spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped) – Adds color and a slight vegetal flavor; wilts quickly. For the Richness Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup) – Melts into the dish, thickening the sauce and enhancing the umami flavor. Vegetable or Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Serves as the cooking liquid, enriching the orzo with flavor. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste. Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens the flavor profile and balances richness. Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Adds fresh color and herbal notes. With these delightful ingredients, your Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach will transform into an irresistible comforting dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Step 1: Cook the Orzo Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and set it aside, remembering to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has fully melted and begins to foam, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, releasing a delightful aroma. Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms Stir in 8 ounces of sliced cremini or button mushrooms into the skillet. Allow them to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender and their moisture has evaporated, creating a lovely golden-brown color. This step deepens the flavor profile of your Garlic Butter Orzo. Step 4: Add the Spinach Next, add 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring it in gently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and brightens, adding a vibrant color to your dish. The combination of spinach and mushrooms enhances the earthy flavors of the Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach. Step 5: Incorporate the Broth Pour in 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to bubble lightly. This step infuses the orzo with incredible flavor while preparing it to absorb the delicious garlicky goodness of the sauce. Step 6: Combine the Orzo Add the drained orzo to the skillet, gently folding it into the mushroom and spinach mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the orzo is evenly coated with the broth and flavors developing in the skillet. This creates a hearty and comforting base for your Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach. Step 7: Finish with Cheese Lower the heat and stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens, typically about 2-3 minutes. The cheese will create a creamy consistency, binding all the ingredients together beautifully in a rich sauce that envelops the orzo. Step 8: Season to Perfection Finally, season your dish with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to achieve a balanced and bright flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach. Adjust the seasoning according to your personal preference for a perfect finish. Step 9: Serve and Garnish Once the orzo has reached the desired consistency, remove it from heat and serve hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. Your comforting Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach is now ready to delight your family and friends! Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Orzo Watch the Butter: Avoid browning the butter too quickly; blending it with olive oil helps achieve the desired creamy richness without burning. Sauté Wisely: Ensure the mushrooms are cooked until tender and their moisture has evaporated to prevent a watery dish, which keeps your Garlic Butter Orzo flavorful. Fresh Herbs: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or basil during cooking, elevating the overall taste and aroma. Taste As You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. A little extra salt or lemon juice can brighten the dish beautifully. Protein Boost: If you’re looking for a balanced meal, think about adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu when mixing in the orzo for a heartier option. How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Fridge: Store the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy. Freezer: Portion the Garlic Butter Orzo into freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours, as it contains ingredients that can spoil without refrigeration. Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a little broth or butter to refresh the creamy consistency. Make Ahead Options These Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish even on the busiest of nights! You can cook the orzo and prepare the sautéed vegetable mixture (mushrooms, spinach, garlic, and onions) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the components separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, just combine the orzo and vegetable mix in a skillet, pour in 2 cups of broth, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. This way, you’ll achieve the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze! Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Orzo Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity as you customize this vibrant dish to suit your tastes! Frozen Spinach: Swap fresh spinach with frozen spinach after draining excess moisture for convenience without compromising flavor. Creamy Vegan Alternative: Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it a great vegan option. Spicy Kick: Enhance the dish with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to add warmth and excitement to your orzo. Wine Infusion: Pour a splash of white wine before adding broth for a sophisticated layer of flavor that elevates your dish to new heights. Hearty Additions: Consider folding in sautéed chicken, shrimp, or tofu along with the orzo to create a more substantial meal for protein lovers. Diverse Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with a mix of mushrooms like shiitake or oyster for a more complex earthy profile and texture in your dish. Lemon Zest Boost: Adding a touch of lemon zest along with lemon juice brightens the flavor even more, giving a fresh burst of citrusy brightness. Cheese Variations: Swap out Parmesan for pecorino or goat cheese to change up the flavor profile while still maintaining that creamy deliciousness. No matter how you choose to cater to your taste buds, this Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach will surely remain a beloved favorite around your table! If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, why not try our Hasselback Potatoes Garlic for a perfect side dish? What to Serve with Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Elevate your weeknight dinner with these delectable sides that will perfectly complement your creamy orzo dish. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery delight that’s perfect for sopping up the rich sauce while adding an extra layer of garlicky flavor. Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like zucchini and bell peppers contrast wonderfully with the creamy orzo and bring vibrant colors to your meal. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with tangy dressing and parmesan creates a refreshing balance, cutting through the dish’s richness. Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken brushed with herbs complements the orzo beautifully, making your meal more filling and satisfying. Lemon Olive Oil Drizzle: A zesty topping for your dish that enhances the flavors of the orzo while reinforcing its brightness. Pineapple Upside Down Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with this luscious dessert, providing a delightful contrast to the savory garlic butter orzo. Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Recipe FAQs How do I know if my mushrooms are fresh? Fresh mushrooms should be firm and smooth to the touch, with a dry, clean appearance. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel slimy, as these are signs they may be past their prime. How long can I store leftovers of my Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach? You can refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the creamy texture. Can I freeze Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach? Absolutely! Portion the orzo into freezer-safe containers and it will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet, adding a bit of broth or water to maintain its creaminess. What if my orzo is too sticky after cooking? If your orzo turns out sticky, it’s likely overcooked or didn’t have enough water. For next time, make sure to bring your pasta back to a rolling boil, then drain it well. Adding a little olive oil after draining can also prevent sticking. Does this recipe work for people with nut allergies? Yes, this Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach is a nut-free dish! However, it’s always a good practice to check the labels of any packaged ingredients like broth or cheese to avoid cross-contamination, especially if allergies are severe. Can I substitute other veggies for the spinach and mushrooms? Certainly! Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard and replace mushrooms with zucchini or bell peppers. Just ensure the vegetables you choose cook to a similar texture and adjust cooking times as needed! Creamy Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach Magic This Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines rich flavors in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Orzo1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini.For the Flavor Base2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Use salted butter if preferred but adjust added salt.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents butter from burning while adding extra richness.3 cloves Garlic Minced.1 small Onion Finely chopped; sauté until translucent.For the Vegetables8 ounces Cremini or Button Mushrooms Sliced.2 cups Fresh Spinach Roughly chopped.For the Richness1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Melts into the dish.2 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth Serves as the cooking liquid.For Seasoningto taste Saltto taste Pepper1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the flavor.for garnish Fresh Parsley Chopped. Equipment large potColanderLarge Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.Stir in sliced cremini or button mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and moisture evaporates.Add roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and stir. Bring to a gentle simmer.Add drained orzo to the skillet, folding it into the mixture.Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, adjusting to taste.Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor added flavor, consider including herbs like thyme or basil during cooking. Taste as you go to adjust the seasoning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
