Creamy Spinach Orzo

Name: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Recipes

I absolutely love making creamy spinach orzo for a cozy dinner. This dish brings together the rich creaminess of a classic risotto and the vibrant nutrient-packed goodness of spinach. With just the right amount of garlic and Parmesan cheese, it has become a family favorite at our table. What I love most is how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners yet indulgent enough for special occasions.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:17:36.017Z

When I first attempted to create a creamy spinach orzo, I wanted to replicate the comforting flavors of creamy risotto but in a quicker cooking format. By using orzo instead of traditional rice, I achieved that creamy consistency but in a fraction of the time. The key trick I learned is to toast the orzo slightly before adding the broth; this enhances the nutty flavor and takes the dish to another level.

Another tip I picked up is to add the spinach at the very end. This way, it retains its vibrant color and nutrients, making every bite not only delicious but also visually appealing. Trust me, once you try making this easy yet elegant dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that perfectly coats each orzo piece
Packed with nutrient-dense spinach for a health boost
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

Mastering the Orzo

Cooking orzo pasta is a key step in achieving the creamy consistency of this dish. Toasting the orzo in olive oil adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy while cooking. Aim for a light golden color during the toasting phase, which should take around 2-3 minutes. Before adding the broth, ensure that the orzo is evenly coated in oil for a full flavor experience.

When simmering the orzo in vegetable broth, it’s essential to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan. The goal is to reach an al dente texture, which usually takes about 10 minutes. You can test a piece by biting into it—the orzo should have a slight firmness without being crunchy. This texture is crucial, as it will hold up well against the creamy sauce later.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

Adding garlic after toasting the orzo is a great technique to infuse the dish with flavor while maintaining the garlic's potent aroma. Cooking the garlic for just one minute until fragrant allows it to release its oils without burning, which can create a bitter taste. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount to one clove, but keep in mind that garlic adds depth to the creaminess of the finished dish.

The incorporation of fresh spinach is not only a health boost, but it also introduces a beautiful color contrast against the creamy sauce. If you find yourself with frozen spinach, it works just as well—just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture diluting the flavor. The spinach should wilt quickly, within 2-3 minutes, and meld beautifully with the cream and Parmesan for a cohesive dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your creamy spinach orzo:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious creamy spinach orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown.

Add Garlic and Broth

Add the minced garlic to the toasted orzo and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.

Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve while hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before adding the broth. You can also experiment by incorporating other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Storage and Reheating

This creamy spinach orzo can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect dish for meal prep. Once cooked, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or a little extra cream to restore the creamy texture, as the orzo will absorb liquid as it sits. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

If you'd like to freeze the orzo, it's best to do so without the cream added, as it can separate when thawed. Cook the orzo and spinach mixture, allow it to cool, then freeze in portions. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat on the stovetop, and stir in cream and Parmesan just before serving to maintain that luscious texture.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize this creamy spinach orzo by incorporating other vegetables or proteins as desired. Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms can elevate the dish to a full meal. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative, which will still provide richness without the extra calories.

To add an earthy flavor, consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers, which will complement the spinach beautifully. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be tossed in right before serving, adding a burst of freshness and bright color. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, can also create a unique flavor twist to suit your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, but it’s best to store the orzo and sauce separately to prevent the orzo from becoming mushy.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water from the frozen spinach before adding it.

→ Is there a dairy-free option available?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

To make it heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.