Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo

Name: Creamy Spinach Parmesan 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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making creamy spinach parmesan orzo on a cozy evening. This dish combines the rich flavors of parmesan with the freshness of spinach, and the orzo pasta provides that perfect creamy texture that’s truly indulgent. It’s become a go-to recipe for me, especially when I want something comforting yet simple. I enjoy serving it as a main dish or alongside grilled chicken, and it always gets rave reviews from family and friends!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:37:10.447Z

When I first tried making creamy spinach parmesan orzo, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to toast the orzo in a bit of butter before adding the broth – it enhances the nutty flavor and makes the finished dish unbelievably rich. Pairing this with sautéed garlic and fresh spinach brings everything together beautifully.

I like to finish it with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a dash of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. It’s these little tweaks that turn a simple recipe into something truly special, guaranteeing it’s always a hit at the dinner table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, comforting texture that warms the soul
Rich spinach flavor balanced perfectly with parmesan
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Getting the Orzo Just Right

Toasting the orzo before adding any liquids is a crucial step that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. This brief toasting process, which should last around three minutes on medium heat, brings out a nutty aroma. Stir frequently to ensure even browning, preventing any grains from burning. If you notice that the orzo is browning too quickly, simply lower the heat slightly to maintain control.

The choice of pot matters too! A wide, shallow skillet allows for more surface area, which helps achieve that delightful toast. A heavy-bottomed skillet retains heat better, ensuring an even toast without hot spots. Such attention to detail makes all the difference in the final dish’s flavor profile.

Perfecting the Creamy Finish

When stirring in the heavy cream and parmesan, it's essential to maintain low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir slowly and consistently, watching for the mixture to become glossy and creamy. This is also the moment to taste and adjust seasoning. Don’t underestimate the impact of salt and pepper; they help elevate the flavors of both the spinach and the parmesan.

Consider using freshly grated parmesan, as it melts more smoothly than pre-grated options. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though this will give a slightly less rich texture. However, ensure to add it gradually and avoid cooking it at too high a temperature.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious orzo dish.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy spinach parmesan orzo.

Toast the Orzo

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast it for about 3 minutes until lightly golden.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Add Broth and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy orzo into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Make sure to serve immediately for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream mixture before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s often rare), store the creamy orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to prevent it from becoming too thick. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often until heated through. I find this helps restore the creamy texture that can sometimes change when refrigerated.

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish due to the dairy content which may separate upon thawing. However, if you want to prepare ahead, consider cooking the orzo slightly al dente and storing it separately from the creamy sauce. When ready to serve, combine and heat it up to maintain the best texture.

Variations and Add-ins

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the orzo once the parmesan is stirred in. This creates a more filling meal that’s great for those who need extra sustenance. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or white beans for added protein and texture without meat.

Feel free to experiment with different greens beyond spinach. Swiss chard or kale can work well; just remember to chop them finely and adjust cooking time – leafy greens like kale may require a little extra time to soften. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavors, which is especially nice alongside the richness of the cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with this orzo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a fresh salad.