Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo

Name: Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 3 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Plates

I absolutely love how quickly this creamy spinach parmesan orzo comes together. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a comforting dish that's packed with flavor. The creamy texture combined with the fresh spinach and rich parmesan makes it an irresistible meal. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, which is a win in my book!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:22:17.014Z

When I first tried making orzo, I was amazed by how versatile it was. This creamy spinach parmesan version quickly became a favorite. I discovered that adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce transforms it into a silky smooth coating that clings perfectly to the orzo. This little trick takes a simple dish and elevates it to something truly special!

I've experimented with various greens in this recipe, and while spinach is a classic, I love switching it up with kale or even arugula for a peppery twist. The key is to ensure the greens are just wilted, retaining their vibrant color and nutrients. Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and dreamy texture that brings comfort to any table
The perfect balance of flavors with rich parmesan and fresh spinach
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this creamy spinach parmesan orzo, every ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that lush, comforting flavor. The orzo serves as a hearty base, with its small, rice-like shape soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully. The fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also contributes vital nutrients, making this dish wholesome and filling. I love how the richness of the parmesan melds with the cream, creating a velvety texture that's simply irresistible.

Olive oil is the foundation for sautéing, and it imparts a light fruitiness that balances the heavier components. When cooking the garlic in olive oil, watch for a golden hue; this signals that it's ready to release its sweet, nutty flavor into the dish. Using fresh ingredients ensures maximum flavor - a simple swap from dried spices to fresh garlic truly elevates this meal, bringing out the best in your orzo.

Mastering the Cooking Process

To achieve the perfect texture for your orzo, remember that overcooking can lead to a mushy dish. Following package instructions usually takes around 8-10 minutes, and testing your orzo for that pleasant al dente bite is key. If you're unsure, take a piece out and taste it; it should have a gentle chew but not be hard in the center. This will help maintain structure during the final cooking phases when combined with other ingredients.

After adding the vegetable broth, elevating the heat to a medium-high simmer helps quickly blend the flavors together. It's essential to stir consistently during this phase; this ensures that the orzo does not stick to the bottom of the pot and creates a delicious glaze that complements the overall dish. Remember, patience is vital—the spinach should just wilt and retain some body without becoming soggy or overcooked.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked orzo, heavy cream, and chopped spinach. Stir to combine and let cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts.

Add Parmesan

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy spinach parmesan orzo!

Dive into this delicious dish right away!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some cooked chicken or mushrooms. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.

Storage and Leftovers

This creamy spinach parmesan orzo is not only a delightful dish to serve fresh but also keeps well for leftovers. After cooking, allow the orzo to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to return some moisture to the dish, as orzo can absorb liquid as it sits.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider making the orzo and the creamy sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. This method ensures the orzo retains its ideal texture without becoming overcooked. You can also freeze portions of the orzo; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving, this dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or a piece of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For an added burst of flavor, try topping it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving; both elevate the dish and complement the richness of the parmesan. You could also incorporate roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Feel free to experiment with your ingredients as well! Substitute the spinach for other greens like kale or arugula, which would bring their unique textures and flavors into play. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter option, using half-and-half instead of heavy cream still achieves a creamy texture while cutting down on calories. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.