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; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo recipe! It's a delightful take on a classic dish, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and creamy texture. We’ve crafted this recipe to bring together fresh spinach, rich parmesan, and the comforting element of orzo pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can create a warm, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Trust me, this is one meal you won't want to miss!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:58:17.511Z

When I first attempted this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy parmesan creates a satisfying dish that’s hard to resist. I found that cooking the orzo directly in the broth gives it an extra punch of flavor, making it truly special.

One tip I’ve discovered is to reserve a little pasta water before draining the orzo. Adding a splash of this starchy water back into the dish while mixing in the cheese gives it an unmatched creaminess. Trust me, this secret will elevate your pasta dishes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, velvety texture that warms the soul
Nutty parmesan brings depth to every bite
Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings

      

The Role of Orzo and Cream

Orzo is a unique pasta shape that resembles rice, making it a fantastic choice for this creamy dish. Its small size allows it to absorb the flavors of the broth and cream, creating a harmonious blend. Cook the orzo until it reaches an al dente texture, which should take about 10-12 minutes. This will ensure that the orzo maintains a pleasant bite while soaking in the creamy goodness.

The heavy cream is essential for achieving that rich, velvety sauce. It adds body and smoothness, elevating the overall mouthfeel of the dish. If you're looking to lighten it up without sacrificing creaminess, you could try using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Just be mindful that the final texture might differ slightly.

Enhancing Flavor with Spinach and Garlic

The fresh spinach not only brings vibrant color but also contributes essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. When you cook it until just wilted, it retains some of its texture, adding a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce. Keep an eye on the spinach; it should be bright green and wilted in just a few minutes—overcooking it can lead to an unappetizing texture.

Garlic is a powerhouse flavor enhancer. Sautéing garlic in olive oil for just a minute allows it to bloom, creating a fragrant base for the orzo. Be vigilant here; burnt garlic can turn the dish bitter. If you enjoy a garlicky kick, feel free to double the amount or add minced garlic toward the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo pairs beautifully with simple proteins like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a complete meal. You might also consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish, which could elevate the flavors further. Additionally, tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes can introduce a tangy richness that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.

For anyone looking to make this dish a bit more substantial, consider incorporating other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the orzo. If you’re in the mood for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can easily be stirred in when adding the spinach, for an unexpected, delightful kick.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes.

Add Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally.

Combine Spinach and Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add Parmesan

Remove from heat and mix 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 achieve desired creaminess.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.

Enjoy this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo hot and fresh. It’s best when served immediately!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions with the garlic. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the orzo and prepare the creamy sauce in advance, then combine the two when you're ready to serve. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently, stirring occasionally to avoid clumping, and add a splash of stock or cream if it thickens too much.

If you'd like to freeze the dish, I recommend doing it without the spinach, as it doesn't freeze well. Instead, freeze just the orzo and creamy sauce. When ready to use, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and stir in fresh spinach right before serving. This way, your dish will retain a vibrant look and fresh flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sauce is too thick, adding reserved pasta water can help achieve a smooth consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring until you reach your desired texture. Conversely, if you find the sauce too thin, allowing it to simmer on low heat for a few extra minutes can help it reduce and thicken up nicely.

When using Parmesan cheese, be sure to choose fresh, grated cheese rather than pre-shredded versions, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the final texture. Freshly grated cheese melts better and will result in a smoother sauce. If you're looking for a non-dairy alternative, a cashew cream or a nutritional yeast sprinkle can replicate some of the creamy and cheesy elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, which is already included in the recipe.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the orzo?

Yes, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn, which will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.