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; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo for its delightful combination of creamy texture and vibrant flavors. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The combination of fresh spinach and rich Parmesan creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. With every bite, you'll enjoy a comforting creaminess that pairs perfectly with the tender orzo pasta. Yum!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:43:14.809Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of combining creamy orzo with fresh spinach and Parmesan. The result was nothing short of spectacular! The key is to add the spinach at just the right moment, allowing it to wilt while still retaining its vibrant color and fresh flavor. Each bite is elevated with a sprinkle of nutmeg, which perfectly complements the creaminess of the dish.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. I often use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the orzo, enhancing the overall flavor. It’s a simple tip that makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that delights and comforts
Bright spinach flavor balanced with rich Parmesan
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights

Ingredient Insights

The orzo pasta is the star of this dish, providing a wonderful texture that complements the creamy sauce. Cook it just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture; you want it to hold its shape while absorbing the flavors from the sauce. If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with another small pasta shape, such as ditalini or even small rice, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Using fresh spinach is key in this recipe, bringing a bright and healthy element to the dish. Fresh spinach cooks down significantly, so don’t be surprised by how much it reduces in volume. If you prefer, frozen spinach can be used in a pinch; just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to prevent excess moisture in the final dish.

Technique Tips

When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; it should be fragrant and lightly golden, which typically takes about a minute over medium heat. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. This ensures the garlic flavors the oil without becoming bitter, contributing to the overall richness of the orzo.

For the creamy sauce, gradually add the heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency. If your sauce seems too thick, little by little you can incorporate a splash of additional vegetable broth or some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. This technique will also help the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo

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

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

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

Sauté the Garlic

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

Add Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Mix in Orzo

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream while mixing in the cheese. You can also replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half for a healthier version.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy spinach Parmesan orzo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed to bring back its silky texture. Stir frequently to avoid any sticking. I recommend making a double batch and freezing half for a quick meal later.

If you freeze the orzo, consider leaving the spinach out until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the spinach from becoming overly mushy upon reheating. Once you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost in the fridge overnight, then sauté fresh spinach into the warm orzo right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various proteins. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying, balanced meal. Alternatively, you can turn it into a vegetarian main by adding chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also elevate the flavor profile, adding brightness and a hint of spiciness to contrast with the creamy richness. Don't forget that a bit of extra grated Parmesan on top makes for a beautiful presentation as well!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

→ Is there a gluten-free version of orzo?

Yes, there are gluten-free orzo options available made from rice or corn. Look for these in your local grocery store.

→ Can I add additional vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.