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: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo, especially on weeknights when I crave something rich and comforting. The creamy texture and savory flavor of the spinach combined with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese create a satisfying dish that never fails to please. What I enjoy most is how easily this meal comes together using just one pot, allowing me to spend more time enjoying dinner and less time on cleanup. It's an indulgent dish that feels special yet is quick enough for a busy evening.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:34:13.300Z

When I first tried making orzo, I was pleasantly surprised by how adaptable and quick-cooking it is. The creamy sauce enveloping the orzo is packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with sautéed spinach, offering a dish that's both simple and elegant. One tip that has worked wonders for me is finishing the dish with a touch of reserved pasta water, which helps create a silkier texture.

Every time I serve Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo to friends or family, it's met with enthusiasm. It's the kind of dish that caters to everyone and can easily be modified by adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that feels indulgent yet comforting
Packed with nutrient-rich spinach for a healthier twist
Easily customizable with your favorite proteins or vegetables

      

Perfecting the Orzo Cooking Technique

Cooking orzo perfectly is crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture in this dish. When adding the orzo to the skillet, ensuring you stir it frequently can help prevent sticking and promote even cooking. You'll know it's ready when it’s tender and slightly al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as overcooking could lead to a mushy texture, affecting the overall dish experience.

After the orzo has absorbed most of the vegetable broth, it should look plump and slightly glossy. If you notice that it’s becoming too thick before the orzo is fully cooked, don't hesitate to add a splash more broth to keep it moist. This small adjustment results in the perfect creamy consistency, making it a breeze to stir in the spinach and cream later on.

The Role of Greens and Cream

Chopping fresh spinach for this recipe not only adds a vibrant color but also contributes a wealth of nutrients. I recommend adding the spinach toward the end of cooking to preserve its bright green color and ensure it remains tender yet slightly crisp. This method enhances the dish's visual appeal and maintains the spinach's nutritional profile, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Incorporating heavy cream gives this orzo its signature richness, but you can adjust the amount based on your preference. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half the heavy cream with low-fat yogurt or a nondairy alternative like cashew cream. Just remember to add these substitutes gradually to maintain the dish's creamy integrity without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Leftovers

Serving Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is as versatile as the ingredients you include. For an extra punch, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp; the savory flavors blend beautifully. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a slight heat if you’re craving something spicy. I enjoy serving it with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the orzo.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days but do note that the orzo may continue to absorb moisture. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore the creamy texture. Microwave in short increments, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

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

Once you have everything ready, you'll be set to create this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet, and stir to coat it in the oil. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the orzo is tender.

Add the Spinach and Cream

Stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy.

Finish with Parmesan

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a light cream or a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Ingredient Options and Substitutions

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is highly adaptable. If you want to enhance the dish with more flavors, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms sautéed with the garlic. Similarly, feel free to swap in other greens like kale or arugula for a different twist. Each ingredient not only influences the flavor profile but also adds unique nutrition to the meal.

For those who prefer a vegetarian protein source, think about adding chickpeas or cannellini beans when you stir in the spinach. These options not only up the protein content but also add texture and heartiness to the dish, making it a complete meal.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is extremely straightforward. For each extra serving, simply increase the quantities of all ingredients proportionately. If cooking for a larger crowd, a large pot becomes essential to properly cook everything without overcrowding, which can hinder the orzo from cooking evenly. Cooking times should remain consistent, but be prepared to monitor the liquid absorption closely as larger quantities could lead to slightly longer cooking times.

Conversely, if you're looking to scale down, you can effortlessly halve the quantities for a smaller meal or portion. The beauty of this recipe is that all ingredient amounts convert smoothly, ensuring you can still enjoy a comforting dish without the excess. Just remember that leftovers can always be enjoyed later!

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 before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I make this a protein-packed meal?

You can stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to add protein to your orzo.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. It may thicken, so add a splash of broth or water while reheating to loosen it.