Creamy Tomato Mushroom Orzo

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore this Creamy Tomato Mushroom Orzo! The combination of tender orzo and rich, creamy tomato sauce makes for a comforting and delicious meal that comes together quickly. I found that adding sautéed mushrooms elevates the dish even further, providing an earthy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the tomatoes. This recipe has become a go-to in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something hearty yet simple to prepare.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:25:22.402Z

When I first tried combining orzo with a creamy tomato sauce, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The creaminess envelops the pasta, making each bite incredibly decadent. Sautéing the mushrooms in butter prior to adding them to the dish enhances their flavor and gives a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the orzo.

After several attempts at perfecting the sauce consistency, I discovered that a splash of pasta water mixed with cream results in the best balance. It adds just the right touch of silkiness without making it overwhelming. This creamy tomato mushroom orzo has become a favorite among friends and family!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with every bite
Richly flavored sauce that’s quick to prepare
Versatile; add your favorite vegetables or proteins

      

Mastering the Orzo

Cooking the orzo to the perfect texture is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency in this dish. When adding the orzo to boiling salted water, make sure to stir it frequently during the first few minutes to prevent it from sticking together. Aim for an al dente texture, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Remember, the orzo will continue to cook slightly once you combine it with the sauce, so don’t overcook it in the boiling water.

Draining the orzo properly is another vital step. Always reserve some pasta water before draining, as its starchy content can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed. The pasta water should be added gradually; just a couple of tablespoons at first will usually do the trick if your sauce is too thick. This not only helps in creating a silky texture but also prevents waste.

Flavor Balance with Ingredients

Mushrooms play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of this Creamy Tomato Mushroom Orzo. By sautéing them until golden brown, you not only improve their texture but also bring out their natural umami richness. If you prefer different mushrooms, feel free to experiment with varieties like cremini or shiitake, which will provide varying degrees of earthiness. Just remember that the cooking time might vary slightly with different types.

The choice of diced tomatoes is equally important. Opting for high-quality canned tomatoes can significantly elevate the final dish. San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity, can enhance the overall richness of the sauce. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you stir in the tomatoes can offer a delightful kick without overwhelming the creamy base.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything measured before you start for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious creamy tomato mushroom orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Cream

Stir in the diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Combine Orzo and Sauce

Add the drained orzo to the skillet, stirring well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your luscious creamy tomato mushroom orzo!

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using sun-dried tomatoes or spinach in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Creamy Tomato Mushroom Orzo is an opportunity to get creative! You can pair it with a simple green salad topped with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving can add an extra layer of creaminess and flavor. If you like a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or walnuts can be a delightful garnish.

This dish also makes a great base for seasonal vegetables. Consider roasting bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach and folding them in just before serving. This not only adds color but introduces even more flavors and nutrients into the meal. It’s a fantastic way to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or what's in season.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to streamline your weeknight meals, this orzo dish is perfect for make-ahead prep. You can cook the orzo and prepare the sauce separately up to a day in advance. Just keep them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the orzo, and stir in a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to bring the sauce back together.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. While the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon thawing, it’s still a convenient option. Portion the orzo into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if necessary to restore the creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat and use vegetable broth if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the orzo. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.