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, roughly 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: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore making creamy dishes that feel like a warm hug, and that's what inspired me to create this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo. The combination of tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a meal that's not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. I love how quickly this dish comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or serving to unexpected guests. Plus, the creamy texture just elevates it to a whole new level, inviting everyone to dig in with a smile.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:58:16.435Z

Cooking this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo was such a delightful experience for me. I found that the key to achieving that irresistible creaminess lies in the gradual addition of the broth while stirring. This method allows the orzo to release its starches, making the dish rich and velvety. The warm sautéed spinach adds a beautiful color and enhances the overall flavor.

I've made this dish several times now, and every time, the balance of flavors just amazes me. A tip I discovered is to add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the spinach, which gives a delicious depth to the dish. It’s a simple trick that really impresses!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and dreamy texture that comforts the soul
Rich flavors from fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese
Quick and easy to whip up for any occasion

      

Mastering the Creaminess

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in this orzo dish hinges on the right balance of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream not only enriches the dish but also helps in binding the ingredients together seamlessly. When you stir the cream and cheese into the cooked orzo, do so over low heat to prevent scorching. This gentle warming allows the cheese to melt slowly, creating a glossy finish that's incredibly inviting.

If you find that your sauce is not as creamy as you'd like, consider adding a splash more of heavy cream or even a bit of reserved pasta water. This water is starchy and will help thicken the sauce while keeping it silky. Just remember to add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe as it wilts perfectly into the orzo, adding both flavor and nutritional benefits. If you don't have fresh spinach on hand, you can substitute it with frozen chopped spinach, but be sure to squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery dish. Additionally, using high-quality Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor profile significantly; freshly grated will melt better and provide a richer taste than pre-packaged options.

For a twist on flavors, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These simple additions can brighten the dish and introduce a hint of zing that balances the creaminess beautifully.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly 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 fresh spinach for the best flavor and color.

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Orzo and Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with spinach. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and if desired, a pinch of nutmeg. Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

This dish is best served immediately for optimal creaminess!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also make a great garnish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo stores quite well in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. However, keep in mind that the orzo will continue to absorb moisture, so it may become thicker upon storage. To revive it, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating, ensuring it doesn't dry out in the process.

If you plan on meal prepping, consider cooking the orzo and spinach separately, then combining them with the creamy sauce right before serving. This method helps maintain the texture of both the pasta and the spinach, preserving that delightful creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

To make this dish even more appealing, consider garnishing it with a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts. The crunch will offer a wonderful contrast to the creamy orzo and add an extra layer of flavor. For an added protein boost, you could incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a more complete meal.

This creamy orzo pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread, enhancing the dining experience without overwhelming the palate. Feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh finishing touch, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?

Yes, whole wheat orzo works well and adds a nutty flavor.

→ What if I don't have vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or even water in a pinch.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream and replacing Parmesan with nutritional yeast will keep it vegan.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would pair wonderfully with this orzo.