Mushroom & Parmesan Orzo Skillet with Thyme -

Discover a delightful one-pan meal that brings rich flavors to your table: Mushroom & Parmesan Orzo Skillet with Thyme. This creamy and savory dish combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese, all tied together with aromatic thyme. Quick to prepare and easy to clean up, this skillet dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive side for entertaining.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Mushroom & Parmesan Orzo Skillet is more than just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. With its comforting creamy texture and rich flavors, it appeals to a wide range of taste buds, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. It’s a nourishing dish that packs a punch in flavor while being simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

In addition to its flavor, the recipe is packed with nutrients thanks to mushrooms, which are known to support immune health and offer a good source of fiber. It’s also a great canvas for meal prep, as it can be made in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated without losing its essence.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this fantastic meal:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped
8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced

1 cup orzo pasta
2 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Extra thyme and Parmesan, for garnish (optional)

Directions

This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all levels:

Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes until they are softened and browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Stir in the orzo and toast it for about 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed.

Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Garnish with additional Parmesan and thyme before serving, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom & Parmesan Orzo Skillet

Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of white wine along with the broth for additional depth of flavor.

Make it a Meal: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach to make this dish more substantial.
Storage: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can replace thyme for a different flavor profile.

Double Up: Feel free to double the recipe for meal prep or to serve a larger crowd!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo works beautifully, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or even a gluten-free pasta if desired.

2. Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! The recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth and excludes meat, making it perfect for vegetarian diets.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warm.

4. Can I make this a vegan dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter for a vegan alternative and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

The Mushroom & Parmesan Orzo Skillet with Thyme is a quick, hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s certain to impress. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with additional proteins and vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire.