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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo because it strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh flavors. The creamy texture combined with the slight bite of the orzo makes each bite a delight. What really draws me to this dish is how simple it is to prepare while still feeling elegant and indulgent. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe has become a staple in our home, offering comfort that warms the heart and soul.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:34:13.403Z

Creating this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo has been a rewarding journey for my cooking skills. I experimented with different cheeses and cream ratios until I found the perfect blend that creates a smooth and luscious texture without overpowering the delicate flavor of spinach. It was a game changer when I learned to toast the orzo slightly before adding the broth; it enhances the nuttiness and gives this dish an extra depth of flavor.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins; I've tried it with grilled chicken and mushrooms, which were fantastic. The key is to keep that creamy consistency, so I always reserve a bit of pasta water to achieve the ideal sauce consistency without it becoming too thick.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, comforting texture that satisfies any craving
Fresh spinach adds a beautiful color and nutritious boost
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions

      

Cooking the Orzo to Perfection

Cooking the orzo correctly is essential to achieving the delightful creamy texture that defines this dish. Start by toasting the orzo in olive oil after sautéing the garlic. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the orzo, which works beautifully with the creamy sauce. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently to avoid burning, which can happen quickly if you’re using higher heat.

When adding the vegetable broth, ensure that it reaches a rolling boil before reducing the heat. This not only helps the orzo cook evenly but also ensures it absorbs the broth's flavors. If the broth is not boiling, the orzo may turn mushy and stick together. Stir gently every few minutes to help maintain a nice texture.

The Role of Spinach and Cream

Fresh spinach not only enhances the dish's nutritional profile but also contributes a beautiful green color to the lovely creamy orzo. Make sure to add the spinach right before the heavy cream; this timing allows the spinach to wilt perfectly without becoming overcooked and losing its bright color and nutrients. I love adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach, as it pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors.

When incorporating the heavy cream, lower the heat to prevent it from boiling, which can cause it to separate. Aim for a glossy finish on the orzo as the cream melds with the ingredients. If it looks too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water can help create a luxuriously smooth sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

This creamy spinach Parmesan orzo is best served immediately while it's hot and creamy. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a few tablespoons of vegetable broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out. A gentle reheat on low heat is ideal for maintaining its creamy texture.

For a fun twist, feel free to add other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted bell peppers during the cooking process. You could also swap the spinach for kale, but be aware that kale may need a few extra minutes to wilt. Additionally, adding grilled chicken or shrimp can transform this dish into a heartier meal.

Ingredients

For the orzo

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

Gather all the ingredients and let's start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the orzo

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

Cook the orzo

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add spinach and cream

Once the orzo is cooked, mix in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Stir until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy.

Finish with cheese

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Serve

Serve the creamy orzo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Enjoy your delicious creamy dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing onions along with the garlic, or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider replacing heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or evaporated milk. Just be aware that the texture will change slightly, so ensure a gentle simmer to avoid curdling. Non-dairy options such as coconut cream or cashew cream can also work well for a vegan adaptation, giving a subtle flavor enhancement and maintaining the creaminess.

For the Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still provides a cheesy flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, a sharp cheddar or Gruyère can work, but they will alter the overall taste of the dish. Just remember that stronger cheeses may overshadow the subtle flavor of the spinach.

Scaling the Recipe

This creamy spinach Parmesan orzo recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply increase the amount of orzo and broth proportionally, but consider that cooking times may vary slightly. Ensure that the saucepan you choose can comfortably hold all the ingredients without overflowing.

When preparing for a crowd, consider cooking the orzo in batches to maintain the ideal texture; overloading the pot can lead to uneven cooking. If you're doubling the recipe, stirring frequently is key to achieving the creamy consistency that makes this dish so delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative to make it lighter.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work great.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.