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One-Pot Savory Orzo with Mushrooms, Garlic, and Parmesan Cream Sauce – A Comforting Side or Main Dish

Few things are as satisfying as a dish that blends the earthiness of mushrooms with the creamy richness of pasta. This Savory Orzo with Mushrooms is a versatile recipe that can be served as a comforting main dish or a standout side. It combines tender orzo pasta, a medley of mushrooms, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, all enveloped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: you only need one pot and about 40 minutes to create something that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. The orzo absorbs the chicken broth as it cooks, infusing every bite with savory depth. Add to that the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese, the creaminess of heavy cream, and the freshness of thyme and parsley, and you’ve got a dish that feels both hearty and refined. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or steak for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own with a simple green salad. Either way, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings for cozy, flavorful comfort food.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion diced
  • 2 large cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 lb Mushrooms sliced (cremini, baby bella, or a mix)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tsp Fresh thyme chopped
Pasta & Liquids
  • 2 cups Orzo pasta
  • 3 ½ cups 875 ml Chicken broth (low sodium)
  • ½ cup Chicken broth + 1 tsp lemon juice instead of white wine
Dairy & Cheese
  • 1 cup 250 ml Heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • ½ cup 40 g Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Oils & Seasonings
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • ½ tsp Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (deep, with lid)
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grater – for fresh Parmesan
  • Serving Bowls or Plates

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
  1. Slice mushrooms, dice onion, and mince garlic.
  2. Chop parsley and thyme, set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown and moisture evaporates (6–7 minutes).
  3. Stir in onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
  1. Pour in ½ cup chicken broth + 1 tsp lemon juice (white wine replacement).
  2. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
  1. Stir in orzo and thyme.
  2. Add 3 ½ cups chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
  1. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Finish with Herbs
  1. Stir in fresh parsley for brightness.
Step 7: Serve Hot
  1. Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and thyme if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended (cream sauces can separate).
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Cheese Twist: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes while sautéing mushrooms.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What type of mushrooms work best?
Baby bella or cremini are great, but a mix (shiitake, oyster, button) adds depth.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
3. Do I need to cook orzo separately?
No, it cooks directly in the broth for maximum flavor.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but sauce will be thinner—add a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
5. How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering.
6. Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but orzo will absorb liquid—add broth when reheating.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
Not recommended; the cream may separate.
8. Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu pair beautifully.
9. Is this gluten-free?
No, but gluten-free orzo pasta works as a substitute.
10. What sides go best with this dish?
Garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
This Savory Orzo with Mushrooms is a true one-pot comfort dish—rich, creamy, and full of earthy flavor. With caramelized mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cream sauce, it’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish yet elegant enough to present as a side at gatherings.
Quick to make and endlessly versatile, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable. Pair it with roasted chicken or steak, or enjoy it with a fresh salad and crusty bread—it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.