Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Orzo Pilaf
Elevate your dining experience with this Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Orzo Pilaf, a delightful side dish that combines the rich flavors of sautéed onions and garlic with tender orzo pasta and savory mushrooms. The key to this recipe is using high-quality Parmesan or Romano cheese, which infuses the dish with a depth of flavor that is often missing in store-bought varieties. Serve this warm for a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For an added crunch and a touch of elegance, consider sprinkling toasted sliced almonds on top before serving. Enjoy the creamy texture that comes from the perfect blend of broth and cheese, and feel free to adjust the liquid for your preferred creaminess level. Your guests will be asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
orzo pasta
2 cups (tiny rice-shaped pasta)
butter
1/3 cup (can use more butter if desired)
onion
1 large (chopped)
garlic
1 tablespoon (chopped fresh (or to taste))
chicken broth
5 cups (can also use turkey broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
canned sliced mushrooms
2 cups (drained (approximately 1-2 cans))
lemon juice
2 teaspoons
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
fresh grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup (can use more if desired)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2
Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until the garlic is just fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3
Add the orzo to the pan, stirring to coat it in the butter. Sauté the orzo for 6-7 minutes until it turns golden brown, stirring frequently to ensure even browning.
4
Gradually pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, followed by the lemon juice and drained sliced mushrooms. Stir well to combine everything.
5
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the saucepan with a lid. Cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is firm-tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Take care not to overcook the orzo, as it will continue to thicken upon standing.
6
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and pepper to taste, until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
7
Carefully transfer the orzo pilaf to a serving bowl and serve immediately, perhaps garnished with toasted sliced almonds if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Mushroom Parmesan Orzo Pilaf?
It is a savory side dish that combines rice-shaped orzo pasta with sautéed onions, garlic, mushrooms, and high-quality Parmesan cheese for a rich, comforting flavor.
What is the best way to cook the orzo for this recipe?
The orzo should be sautéed in butter for 6-7 minutes until it turns golden brown before adding any liquid to enhance its nutty flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly dish.
What type of cheese is recommended?
Freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese is highly recommended for the best depth of flavor and creamy texture.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sliced mushrooms; however, you should sauté them along with the onions to ensure they are fully cooked.
What is orzo pasta?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that is excellent at absorbing flavors in pilafs and soups.
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of butter, but you can add more if you prefer a richer taste.
How long does it take to cook the orzo after adding broth?
The orzo should simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until it is firm-tender and most liquid is absorbed.
What purpose does the lemon juice serve?
The lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
Can I add a topping for extra texture?
Yes, toasted sliced almonds are suggested as a garnish to add elegance and a satisfying crunch.
What can I serve with this orzo pilaf?
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad.
Should I use fresh or jarred garlic?
Freshly chopped garlic is recommended for the best aroma and flavor profile.
How do I prevent the orzo from becoming too mushy?
Be careful not to overcook it; remove it from the heat once it is firm-tender, as it will continue to thicken as it stands.
Can I use turkey broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, turkey broth is an excellent alternative that works well with the flavors in this dish.
Is it important to drain the canned mushrooms?
Yes, ensure the canned mushrooms are drained to avoid adding excess canning liquid to the pilaf.
Can I adjust the amount of cheese?
Absolutely, the recipe uses 1 cup of Parmesan, but you can add more if you want an extra cheesy result.
What should I do if the orzo is too dry?
You can adjust the creaminess level by adding a small amount of extra broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I use a different type of onion?
While a large white or yellow onion is standard, you can use shallots or red onion for a slightly different flavor.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best served immediately while warm to maintain its creamy texture.
How do I toast the almond garnish?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
It is best fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat it with a splash of broth to restore the creaminess.
Does the recipe require salt?
Salt is added to taste at the very end, especially since the Parmesan cheese and broth already contain salt.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
What if I don't have high-quality Parmesan?
While high-quality cheese is recommended for the best experience, any grated Parmesan will work.
How many cups of broth are needed?
The recipe requires 5 cups of chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth.
Is the garlic sautéed for a long time?
No, the garlic is sautéed for only about one minute to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
Can I add other vegetables to this?
Yes, peas or chopped spinach would make great additions to this orzo dish.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 cups of dry orzo, which typically serves about 6 to 8 people as a side dish.
Can I use Romano instead of Parmesan?
Yes, Romano cheese is a great substitute and provides a similar sharp, salty flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.