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 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: nutmeg for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love indulging in comforting pasta dishes, and Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is one of my absolute favorites. This recipe captures the creamy essence of risotto while being incredibly simple to prepare. With fresh spinach mixed in, not only does it add beautiful color, but it also infuses a wonderful taste. I often whip this up when I need a warm meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly healthy. It's perfect as a side or a main dish that everyone will enjoy!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:10:21.278Z

During a cozy evening, I decided to combine two of my favorite kitchen staples: orzo and spinach. After experimenting with various spices and ingredients, the final result was a delight! The creamy texture brings comfort, while the Parmesan elevates the flavors to a whole new level. I would make this over and over again anytime I crave something hearty.

I must mention, using fresh spinach makes all the difference! It wilts beautifully in the pan and preserves a vibrant color. For an added twist, I sometimes sprinkle in a hint of nutmeg to enhance the taste further. Trust me; you’ll want to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Easy one-pot meal that saves on cleanup
Fresh spinach gives a nutritious boost with vibrant color

      

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: nutmeg for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

Cook the orzo

In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add the orzo, and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the garlic

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Combine with cream and broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, then stir until well combined. Bring to a simmer.

Mix in Parmesan

Once the mixture is simmering, add the cooked orzo and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Serve hot

Remove from heat and serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or mushrooms. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds a nice brightness to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach; just ensure it’s adequately thawed and drained before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat. Just add a little extra cream or broth to loosen it up.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a fresh garden salad.