Crispy Mushroom Cacio e Pepe Orzo
Updated Nov 24, 2025
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Crispy Mushroom Cacio e Pepe Orzo
This orzo has a risotto-like consistency. The crispy seasoned mushrooms are scattered on top of a cheesy and creamy orzo.
Equipment
- Air Fryer This is the Cuisinart Digital Air Fryer I use!
Ingredients
- 4 oz Mixed Mushrooms, I used baby bella, shiitake, and oyster
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes, use more to taste
- Fresh Thyme, several sprigs to roast; more to serve
- 2 tablespoon Unsalted Butter, divided
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta, dry
- 2 cups Chicken Broth, or broth of choice
- 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, Freshly grated; more to serve
Instructions
- On a baking sheet, toss together mushrooms, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Scatter several sprigs of fresh thyme on top. I baked in a convection oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes or until edges of mushrooms are crispy. If using a conventional oven, bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until edges of mushrooms are crispy.
- Meanwhile, melt 1 tbsp of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Add uncooked orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
- Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then bring to a simmer. Stir often until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is cooked.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the remaining tbsp of butter and parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine until the butter and cheese are melted. Top with the crispy mushrooms.
- Serve immediately with additional parmesan cheese and fresh thyme.
Video
@carolbeecooks At a loss for words after trying this crispy mushroom cacio e pepe risotto style orzo 😶 #orzo #orzotok #crispymushroom #risotto #cacioepepe
♬ son original – ?
Nutrition
Calories: 658kcal, Carbohydrates: 66g, Protein: 31g, Fat: 30g, Saturated Fat: 14g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 11g, Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 63mg, Sodium: 850mg, Potassium: 435mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 749IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 361mg, Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like this recipe? Rate and comment below!
This is a great recipe! Those mushrooms are an umami bomb!!
I’ve been making this dish once or twice a month since I first saw it on tiktok and it’s soo good. Always used to hate mushrooms but this recipe really made me love them. THANK YOU!
Wow that’s amazing to hear! I’m so glad you enjoy this recipe and found a new love for mushrooms!
Made this tonight and doubled it. It is absolutely FANTASTIC. Probably the best orzo dish I’ve ever made. If you’re not a mushroom fan leave them out and still make the orzo.. it’s so good! Thank you!!
Thank you for trying it out and leaving this comment! I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed it!