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 heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo because it's the ultimate comfort food that combines creaminess with earthiness. The way the spinach wilts into the warm orzo while the Parmesan lends a nutty richness is simply divine. It's a one-pot dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or surprising guests. Trust me; this dish will be a new favorite at your table!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:43:01.955Z

Making this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo was a true adventure for me in the kitchen. I experimented with different cheeses and spices, but I found that the blend of creamy Parmesan and fresh spinach is unbeatable. The key is to stir frequently, allowing the orzo to absorb the liquid, which creates that luscious consistency. It really enhances the flavors all around.

One tip I discovered is to use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the orzo. It infuses an additional layer of savory depth that elevates the entire dish. I've also enjoyed adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic finish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that wraps around each bite of orzo
Packed with fresh spinach for added nutrients
Quick and easy one-pot meal for busy nights
Rich Parmesan flavor elevates comfort food

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to achieving perfectly cooked orzo lies in using the right amount of liquid and monitoring the cooking time closely. Bring your vegetable broth to a boil before adding the orzo to ensure a steady cooking temperature. Stir occasionally during the cooking process to prevent sticking. You'll know the orzo is done when it’s al dente, which means it should still hold its shape but be tender enough to bite into. Aim for a slightly firm texture as it will continue to absorb flavor from the cream and cheese.

When adding the cream and spinach, keep the heat on medium-low to avoid curdling the cream. This gentle cooking allows the spinach to wilt without sacrificing its vibrant color and nutrient content. If your spinach starts to lose its color, it means you’re cooking it too long. Ideally, it should retain a bright green hue and a fresh flavor, enhancing the overall satisfaction of the dish.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious texture that is essential to this recipe. The cream acts as a base for the sauce, making it rich and velvety, while the Parmesan adds a nutty depth of flavor. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you may experiment with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, but be mindful that the flavor profile will change. Nutritional yeast can also be a suitable substitute for Parmesan if you're aiming for a dairy-free version.

Fresh spinach is not just for nutrition; its mild flavor balances the richness of the cream and cheese, melding beautifully in this dish. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute it with frozen spinach. Just ensure you thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess water in your dish. You can also experiment with other leafy greens, such as kale or Swiss chard, though these will impart a slightly stronger taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo:

Ingredients

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

Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente.

Add Cream and Spinach

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the mixture to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken before serving. Enjoy your creamy orzo warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if you'd like!

Your delicious Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For a bit of extra flavor, try adding some cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the dish. The orzo can be a fantastic base for various proteins or vegetables, allowing for versatile meal options.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the orzo to help restore its creamy texture, then warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

If you plan to make it ahead of time for meal prep, consider leaving the cheese out until just before serving, as it can affect the texture when reheated. You can also cook the orzo and sauce separately, combining them just before you’re ready to eat for fresher results.

Serving Suggestions

For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to this orzo dish. If you're hosting a gathering, serve it alongside some crusty bread and a light salad to balance the richness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and add an interesting twist.

Alternatively, consider adding seasonal vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms make excellent additions, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before serving for that inviting, cheesy finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use a combination of half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ How long does the orzo last in the fridge?

The Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo can last in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the orzo, but it’s best to leave out the cream and add it when you reheat. It will keep well for up to 2 months.