Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo. Packed with fresh spinach and infused with rich garlic flavor, this dish combines perfectly cooked orzo with a luscious cream sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal. Ideal as a side or a main course, this easy recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Paige Sullivan

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-14T10:27:51.875Z

This Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo recipe was created to bring a burst of flavor and comfort to busy weeknights. With fresh ingredients and a simple method, it is a dish that anyone can master.

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Pasta

Orzo is a versatile pasta that resembles rice, making it a delightful addition to various dishes. This Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo elevates the traditional pasta experience with its rich, savory flavors. The cream sauce adds a luxurious touch, while the garlic perfectly complements the fresh spinach. It’s a unique way to enjoy pasta, bringing a comforting vibe to any meal.

The combination of orzo, garlic, and spinach not only creates a remarkable flavor profile but also elevates the nutritional value of your dinner. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and calcium. This dish allows you to indulge without the guilt, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters. You can savor each creamy bite knowing it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Perfect Pairings for Any Occasion

Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo is an incredibly versatile dish that complements a range of meals. You can serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a classic steak to create a gourmet dining experience at home. Alternatively, enjoy it as a stand-alone vegetarian main course that satisfies without the need for meat. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to impress your diners.

For a fantastic family meal, consider pairing this orzo with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. The refreshing flavors of the salad will balance the rich creaminess of the orzo, creating an irresistible harmony on your dinner table. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before serving for an added touch of flavor and elegance.

Quick Tips for Preparing Orzo

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare each ingredient for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect orzo.

Cook the Orzo

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

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Cream Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine with Orzo

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing your leftover Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo is quick and simple. Place the orzo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This dish maintains its flavor and creaminess well when reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. When storing, try to keep the orzo and sauce separate if possible to retain the best texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help revive the creaminess and prevent the dish from becoming too thick. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, and adjust seasoning as needed to bring back the original flavors.

Making It Your Own

One of the best aspects of recipes like Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo is their adaptability. If you have a craving for something different, consider using different greens such as kale or Swiss chard for a unique twist. You could even toss in some roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor—that way, each bite boasts a delightful crunch.

For those looking to streamline the cooking process further, you can prepare the garlic spinach sauce in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you’re ready to mix with the orzo. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes even better when served freshly warmed.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly!

Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo. Packed with fresh spinach and infused with rich garlic flavor, this dish combines perfectly cooked orzo with a luscious cream sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal. Ideal as a side or a main course, this easy recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Paige Sullivan

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup orzo pasta
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 4 cups fresh spinach
  5. 1 cup heavy cream
  6. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Step 03

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 04

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 15g