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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I fell in love with this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo on a chilly evening when nothing sounded more comforting than a cozy bowl of warmth. The creamy texture paired with the earthiness of spinach and the rich flavor of Parmesan created a dish that I couldn’t stop savoring. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for weeknights. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens while keeping it utterly delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your weekly rotation!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:01:12.975Z

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma in my kitchen was irresistible. I used fresh spinach and let it wilt gently, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the creamy orzo. The secret is in using the right broth and adding a splash of heavy cream at the end for that luscious texture. It's amazing how simple ingredients can come together to create such depth of flavor!

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. I often batch-cook the orzo and keep it in the fridge for quick meals. If I have leftover cooked chicken or shrimp, I toss it in for extra protein, making this dish not only versatile but perfect for cleaning out the fridge!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Packed with nutritious spinach, making it a wholesome choice
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Versatile dish that can be customized with various proteins or veggies

      

Cooking Techniques for Optimal Flavor

When cooking the orzo, using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Make sure to bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the orzo to ensure it cooks evenly. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan, especially in those final moments when it’s achieving an al dente texture. This technique creates a rich base that complements the creamy elements of the dish.

The sautéing of garlic and spinach is crucial—this step not only softens the spinach but also infuses the oil with aromatic flavors. Keep an eye on the garlic; it should be light golden in color but not browned, as burnt garlic will introduce a bitter note to your dish. Using fresh spinach, as specified, ensures a vibrant green color and an earthy taste that balances beautifully with creamy and cheesy elements.

Ingredient Functionality and Alternatives

Parmesan cheese plays a dual role in this recipe; it adds a nutty, salty flavor while also contributing to the desired creaminess of the dish. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast can replicate a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just remember to adjust the amount of salt accordingly since nutritional yeast tends to be less salty than Parmesan.

The heavy cream provides a rich and indulgent mouthfeel that's hard to resist. For a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk. This substitution will still provide creaminess but with fewer calories. However, if you opt for Greek yogurt, add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful dish!

Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy delight!

Cook the Orzo

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Once the orzo is al dente, drain and add it to the skillet with spinach. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and everything is combined.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until creamy. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your creamy orzo dish with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also experiment with different cheese types for varied taste.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture.

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. Be aware that the orzo might absorb some liquid, so you may need to add additional broth when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand alone as a meal, but you can elevate it by serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try adding some chickpeas or white beans for a hearty twist. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also brighten up the dish, adding a layer of complexity.

For a touch of acidity to balance the creaminess, consider serving a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before taking a bite. This will enhance the flavors and add a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the cheese and cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even white beans make great additions for a heartier meal.