Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo

Name: Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 bulb garlic; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Instant Planning

I love experimenting with different pasta dishes, and this Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo has become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of roasted garlic and earthy mushrooms creates an incredible depth of flavor that elevates this simple dish. I appreciate how the orzo absorbs the creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying and comforting. Whether I’m preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. It’s quick to make and truly a crowd-pleaser everyone enjoys!

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:37:34.751Z

When I first created this Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo, I had a craving for something comforting yet simple. After roasting the garlic, its rich flavor becomes almost sweet and adds a stunning contrast to the savory mushrooms. Using orzo instead of traditional pasta lends a unique twist that keeps it interesting. I've found that letting the orzo simmer in the garlic-infused broth helps it to soak up maximum flavor, making it a delightful one-pot meal.

Each time I prepare this dish, I get excited to watch the mushrooms caramelize and release their umami essence. The creaminess that follows, thanks to a splash of parmesan, takes it over the top. For an extra touch, I often garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes, adding a fresh color and a bit of heat. It's a dish I love to serve with a side salad for a complete meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich roasted garlic flavor that enhances any dish
Creamy texture wrapped around comforting orzo
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknights

      

The Role of Roasted Garlic

Roasted garlic plays a pivotal role in this dish, offering a sweet, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms. To achieve the perfect roast, ensure you slice off just the top of the garlic bulb—this allows the natural oils to escape without losing too much of the clove. Keep an eye on them while roasting; the cloves should be soft and golden brown when done, typically around 30 minutes, but check at 25 minutes for an earlier finish.

Using roasted garlic not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes to a creamy consistency when mashed into the sauce. The slow roasting draws out the sugars, creating a sweeter taste that mingles perfectly with the umami richness of the mushrooms. If you're short on time, consider using garlic powder in a pinch, but the depth of flavor from freshly roasted garlic is unparalleled.

Perfecting the Mushroom Sauté

Sautéing the mushrooms correctly is key to achieving a well-rounded dish. Begin by ensuring your skillet is preheated over medium heat; this helps create a golden, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender. If you overcrowd the pan, the mushrooms will steam rather than sauté, leading to a less desirable texture. Work in batches if necessary, ensuring they are evenly spread out and have space to breathe.

For additional flavor, consider tossing in a splash of white wine during the last minute of sautéing. This adds acidity and enhances the overall taste without overshadowing the dish. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan as those are full of umami goodness that will elevate your orzo.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
1 bulb garlic
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Roast the Garlic

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the bulb of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 minutes until golden.

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the roasted garlic (squeezed out from the bulb) and vegetable broth to the skillet with mushrooms. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Add the cooked orzo, stir well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Transfer the orzo to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Roasted Garlic Mushroom Orzo makes for a great make-ahead dish, perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as the orzo can absorb moisture over time, ensuring that creamy texture isn't lost.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the orzo and sautéing the mushrooms without the garlic and cream. Combine everything just before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavor-packed. You could also freeze it for up to a month—just remember to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this dish, serve it alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread, creating a balanced meal that satisfies. You could also add cooked chicken or shrimp to increase the protein content, making it a hearty main dish. For a fresher note, top with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.

If you're looking to experiment with variations, try incorporating different vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. These not only add color and nutrients but also provide a contrasting flavor that complements the richness of the orzo. Just be mindful of cooking times; add delicate greens like spinach towards the end of cooking to prevent them from wilting too much.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular?

Yes, whole wheat orzo can be used for a healthier option, although cooking times may vary.

→ What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the orzo dish. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give this dish a nice kick!