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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo, especially on those busy weeknights when a comforting dish is needed fast. The rich blend of creamy cheese with earthy spinach creates a delightful balance that warms the soul. In just a short time, I can whip up this tasty dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s one of those meals that offers both flavor and simplicity, appealing to everyone in the family. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home as well!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:01:24.429Z

One evening, I was staring at a box of orzo and some leftover fresh spinach, and I just knew I had to make something special. After experimenting with various flavors, I stumbled upon a perfect combination of cream, parmesan, and garlic. The method of sautéing the spinach first allows it to infuse into the dish, making every spoonful rich and flavorful. Trust me, this technique takes a simple orzo from ordinary to extraordinary!

Once I locked in on the creamy texture and balanced seasoning, I felt proud. The secret was in slowly adding the stock to create that silky sauce. You’ll find that each bite has a burst of flavor that leaves you wanting more. It’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen for a reason, and I can’t wait for you to try it out!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with tender orzo
Rich flavor of parmesan combined with fresh spinach
Quick and easy enough for a weeknight family dinner

      

Understanding Orzo Cooking

Orzo is a versatile pasta that resembles rice, and cooking it properly is essential for achieving the ideal texture in this dish. When boiling the orzo, ensure that you have a rolling boil to prevent clumping. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together. Cooking it until al dente is crucial, as it will continue to absorb moisture when combined with the creamy sauce, so aim for the lower end of the cooking time, around 8 minutes.

The choice of vegetable broth over water adds a richer flavor profile to the orzo. I recommend using low-sodium broth to manage the saltiness, especially since Parmesan cheese is also salty. If you don't have vegetable broth on hand, chicken broth can be a suitable substitute, providing a deeper flavor without altering the dish significantly.

The Role of Spinach and Garlic

Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also contributes essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and K to the dish. As it cooks, spinach wilts quickly, melding beautifully with the garlic's aroma. It's important to add the spinach after the garlic becomes fragrant but before it has a chance to brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your meal.

Using freshly minced garlic in this dish elevates the overall flavor. Pre-minced garlic can lose some of its zest, so I always recommend preparing it fresh. If you find yourself short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but keep in mind to reduce the quantity, as dried forms are more concentrated.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

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
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare everything before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked orzo back to the pot. Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy spinach parmesan orzo!

Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the orzo and prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply combine them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, if necessary.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the creamy texture may change as it sits. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish can be a delightful main course or serve as a side to grilled chicken or fish. To elevate the meal further, consider garnishing with additional grated Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley, which bring freshness and contrast to the creaminess.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms during the sautéing step. You can also swap the spinach for other greens like kale or arugula, adjusting cooking times accordingly as these greens have different wilting qualities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be great additions to this creamy orzo.