Save to Pinterest This Orzo Mushroom Risotto-Style is a creamy, comforting dish where orzo pasta is cooked risotto-style with earthy mushrooms and finished with Parmesan for a rich, savory flavor. It is an easy Italian-inspired main dish that brings gourmet flair to your table in just 35 minutes.
Save to Pinterest By toasting the orzo and adding warm broth gradually, you encourage the pasta to release its starches, resulting in a velvety sauce that coats every grain. The addition of peas adds a bright pop of color and sweetness to this rustic, comforting plate.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Grains: 1 1/2 cups (300 g) orzo pasta
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 10 oz (300 g) cremini or button mushrooms (sliced), 1/2 cup (75 g) frozen peas (optional)
- Liquids: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth (kept warm), 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine (optional)
- Dairy: 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Seasonings: Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2
- Add garlic and mushrooms; cook for 5-6 minutes until mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.
- Step 3
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast.
- Step 4
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until mostly absorbed.
- Step 5
- Add about 1 cup of warm vegetable broth, stirring often. When most of the liquid is absorbed, continue adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring and allowing it to absorb each time.
- Step 6
- After about 10 minutes, stir in the peas (if using). Continue adding broth and stirring until the orzo is al dente and creamy, about 18-20 minutes total.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a wooden spoon and adding the broth in small increments is essential for achieving the perfect creamy consistency. Ensure the vegetable broth is kept warm so it doesn't lower the cooking temperature of the orzo as it simmers.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, try mixing in a handful of sautéed spinach or a touch of truffle oil. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan Parmesan and plant-based butter. Always double-check labels for vegetarian or gluten-free adaptations if needed.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Orzo Mushroom Risotto-Style immediately while it is at its creamiest. Pair the dish with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a classic Italian-inspired dining experience.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this warm and cheesy Orzo Mushroom Risotto-Style as a main course. With its blend of earthy cremini mushrooms and velvety finish, it is a vegetarian delight that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different mushrooms for this dish?
Absolutely. Cremini and button mushrooms work perfectly, but feel free to substitute with portobello, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms. Each variety brings its own earthy depth to the dish. Mixed mushrooms also create interesting layers of flavor.
- → What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer to skip the wine, simply add an extra 1/4 cup of vegetable broth instead. You can also use vegetable stock alone without any wine—the mushrooms will provide plenty of savory flavor on their own.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Substitute vegan Parmesan and plant-based butter for their traditional counterparts. The creamy texture will still develop through the gradual broth absorption method. Nutritional yeast can enhance the umami flavor if desired.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately after cooking for optimal creaminess. However, you can prepare all ingredients in advance. If leftovers remain, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore the creamy consistency.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the earthy mushrooms and rich Parmesan beautifully. The acidity cuts through the creaminess and balances the savory umami flavors perfectly.
- → Why is the stirring technique important?
Constant stirring releases the starches from the orzo, which creates the creamy sauce without heavy cream. This technique, borrowed from risotto, allows the pasta to absorb the broth gradually while developing that signature velvety texture.