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; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); Juice of 1/2 lemon (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo on busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet quick to prepare. The orzo cooks right in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the wonderful flavors, and I never get tired of the delightful combination of fresh spinach and rich Parmesan. This dish is not just simple; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, and it makes excellent leftovers too, retaining that creamy goodness even the next day!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:58:14.677Z

When I first tried making orzo, I was surprised by how versatile it is, especially in creamy dishes like this one. The secret to getting that perfect creaminess lies in gradually adding the broth and allowing the orzo to absorb it slowly. This method not only enhances the flavor but also gives the orzo that luscious texture that’s so satisfying.

I often add my favorite seasonings to elevate this dish. A pinch of nutmeg pairs beautifully with the spinach and Parmesan, creating an unexpected depth of flavor. I also like to finish it off with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten everything up; it really makes a difference!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Quick and easy one-pot preparation
Nutritious spinach adds health benefits and color
Perfectly cheesy with the addition of Parmesan

      

Perfecting Your Orzo Cooking Technique

Cooking orzo directly in the creamy sauce is what elevates this dish, allowing it to absorb all the flavors. When adding the vegetable broth, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You'll know the orzo is ready when it's al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick, just add a splash more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency, ensuring you don't lose that creamy texture we're after.

It's important to pay attention to the heat level while cooking orzo. Medium heat is ideal; if the heat is too high, the broth can evaporate before the orzo is properly cooked. This could lead to unevenly cooked pasta—some pieces may be mushy while others remain hard. A gentle simmer allows for an even cook while keeping the cream sauce smooth and luscious.

Choosing and Storing Your Ingredients

Using fresh spinach in this dish not only contributes vibrant color but also a nutritional boost. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach works as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the sauce. The taste of wilted spinach mingling with the cream and Parmesan truly enhances the flavor profile, making it a critical component of the dish.

For the Parmesan, I recommend going for freshly grated over pre-packaged; the flavor is noticeably richer. If you need a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. This adjustment keeps the dish creamy while catering to different dietary needs. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will maintain its flavor and creaminess for up to three days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo:

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
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the oil.

Add Broth

Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream, mixing until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.

Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice over the top for added brightness, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. You can also substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream if you want a lighter option. Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Make-Ahead and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is a great candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the orzo and creamy sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When you're ready to enjoy, combine them and reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.

If you choose to freeze leftovers, do so in individual portions for convenience. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop, adding a touch of cream or broth as necessary to achieve that comforting texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo as a satisfying main or a delightful side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or a light fish, enhancing your meal without overpowering the main protein. For a vegetarian option, consider tossing in some roasted vegetables to the mix for added flavor and texture.

For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper right before serving. A few fresh basil leaves or a pinch of chili flakes can also add a contrasting flavor layer, making this dish not only comforting but also visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but it's best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

→ What can I use instead of orzo?

You can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo?

While it’s not recommended due to the cream, if you must, freeze it in batches, and reheat gently while adding a bit more liquid.