Orzo Mushroom Risotto-Style (Printable)

Creamy orzo pasta cooked risotto-style with earthy mushrooms and Parmesan. A comforting Italian-inspired dish ready in 35 minutes.

# What You 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)

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Add garlic and mushrooms; cook for 5-6 minutes until mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.
03 - Stir in the orzo and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast.
04 - Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook until mostly absorbed.
05 - 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.
06 - 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.
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 naturally creamy sauce without any heavy cream, just like magic
  • Its done in half the time of traditional risotto but tastes just as luxurious
02 -
  • Keep your broth warm in another pan so you dont slow down the cooking process
  • Stir frequently to release the orzos starch and create that creamy sauce naturally
03 -
  • Dont rinse the orzo before cooking, you want that starch on the surface
  • Grate your own Parmesan, pre grated cheese has anti caking agents that prevent smooth melting
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