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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo when I want a comforting meal that feels both rich and nutritious. The creamy texture of the orzo combined with the fresh spinach and bold Parmesan flavor creates a dish that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. It's one of those recipes that keeps you coming back for more, whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:22:11.730Z

During one of my busy weeknights, I was in the mood for something quick yet satisfying. I decided to combine my love for orzo with fresh spinach and creamy Parmesan cheese. The result? A velvety dish that felt indulgent but was still filled with greens. I learned that letting the orzo absorb the broth while cooking really enhances the flavor and gives it that creamy consistency without needing heavy cream.

One of my favorite tips is to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens up the richness beautifully. Plus, if you have any leftover roasted chicken or shrimp, you can easily toss that in to make it more filling. It’s a versatile dish that's now a staple in our household!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Loaded with fresh spinach for a nutritious boost
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights

      

Understanding Orzo Cooking

Cooking orzo to perfection is crucial for this dish. It should be al dente, meaning it retains a firm bite. To achieve that, keep an eye on the cooking time. Check the orzo a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. If you overcook the orzo, it will become mushy and detract from the creamy texture of the dish. Stir occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking, ensuring even cooking.

Using broth instead of water to cook the orzo elevates the flavor significantly. The broth adds a depth that plain water can't provide. You can opt for vegetable or chicken broth, depending on your dietary preferences. Just be mindful of salt levels, as broth can be salty. I recommend taste-testing the broth before adding extra salt while preparing the dish.

Tips for Flavor Infusion

The sautéed garlic plays a critical role in infusing the dish with flavor. Make sure to cook it just until fragrant, about 1 minute, as overcooking can lead to bitterness. Selecting fresh garlic is vital; it gives a robust aroma that dried garlic simply cannot replicate. If you're a fan of extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes right after the garlic for a subtle heat.

Fresh spinach is not just a nutritious boost; it also adds a beautiful color contrast to the creamy orzo. When adding it to the skillet, cook just until wilted—about 2-3 minutes—so it retains some of its vibrant green color and nutrients. If you're looking for alternatives, you could use kale or Swiss chard, but they may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

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

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

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

Sauté the Garlic

While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients

Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess broth and add it to the skillet with the garlic. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Add Cheese and Season

Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy spinach Parmesan orzo warm, garnished with additional cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sun-dried tomatoes. This dish also pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare the dish as instructed but stop before adding the cheese. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it on low, adding a splash of broth to maintain its creaminess, then stir in the cheese just before serving.

If you decide to freeze the orzo, be aware that while it's safe to do so, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. I recommend freezing the cooked orzo separately from the spinach and cheese mixture to preserve the quality. Store each component in an airtight container for up to a month, then combine and reheat as needed.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish, balancing the richness with a protein. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a hearty salad topped with nuts for added crunch. You can also serve this dish in small ramekins for individual portions, garnishing with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper for a restaurant-style presentation.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding extra ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also introduce new textures that complement the creamy orzo beautifully. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times if you're adding anything that requires longer cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this orzo dish gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free orzo or pasta alternatives to make this dish gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftover orzo?

Leftover orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of broth.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to customize the recipe to your liking.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep! Just cook the orzo and store in portions for an easy lunch or dinner during the week.