Orzo Mushroom Risotto-Style (Print Version)

Creamy orzo with mushrooms and Parmesan, cooked risotto-style for rich comfort food.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Grains

01 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 10 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
06 - 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

→ Liquids

07 - 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
08 - 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

→ Dairy

09 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Seasonings

11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Add garlic and mushrooms; cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
03 - Stir in the orzo and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the pasta.
04 - Pour in white wine if using and cook until mostly absorbed.
05 - Add 1 cup warm vegetable broth, stirring often. When mostly absorbed, continue adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring and allowing absorption each time.
06 - After 10 minutes, stir in peas if using. Continue adding broth until orzo is al dente and creamy, about 18-20 minutes total.
07 - Remove from heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The orzo creates this incredible velvety texture that feels luxurious but takes half the time and attention of traditional risotto
  • Mushrooms and Parmesan were basically made for each other, and the way they melt into the creamy orzo is pure comfort food magic
02 -
  • Keeping your broth warm in a separate pot makes a huge difference in how evenly the orzo cooks
  • The stirring motion releases starch from the pasta, creating that natural creamy sauce without any heavy cream
03 -
  • Grate your own Parmesan from a wedge, the pre grated stuff simply will not give you that perfect melt
  • Do not rush the toasting step with the orzo, those 60 seconds make a remarkable difference in depth of flavor
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