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One-Pot Creamy Garlic Mushroom Orzo with Parmesan and Thyme

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orzo, topped with sautéed mushrooms and parsley.

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Cook a rich, creamy mushroom orzo dish entirely in one pot for simple preparation and minimal cleanup. This recipe uses garlic and thyme for deep flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and brown, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and white wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. The liquid should mostly absorb, and the orzo should be tender.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. Stir in the fresh parsley.
  8. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce without heavy cream, stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
  • Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor base.
  • Ensure you stir the orzo often while it cooks to release its starches, which creates the creamy texture.

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