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; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo because it’s the perfect comfort food, packed with flavor and nutrition. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness come together beautifully, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The best part is how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Each bite feels indulgent yet satisfying, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:13:22.734Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining orzo with spinach and parmesan, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. To my delight, it was an instant hit at our dinner table! The creamy sauce perfectly coats the small pasta, enhancing every bite with a rich flavor. I also experimented by adding a touch of garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice, which elevated the dish further.

One of my biggest tips is to cook the orzo just until al dente, so it holds its texture amidst the creaminess. I also recommend using freshly grated parmesan—it truly makes a difference in flavor. Enjoying a bowl at the end of a long day has become one of my favorite luxuries!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich flavor that satisfies every craving
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any night of the week
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach

      

Mastering Creamy Texture

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo, it is essential to control the heat while incorporating the cream and cheese. After adding the heavy cream to the mixture, keep the heat on low to prevent boiling. Boiling can cause the cream to separate or curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes glossy and slightly thickened, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Another key to a creamy dish is choosing the right cheese. Parmesan adds a distinctive nutty flavor and creaminess that complements the spinach beautifully. If you want to enhance your dish further, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese along with the heavy cream. This will give an even richer texture—just remember to melt it thoroughly into the mixture.

Perfecting Your Orzo

Cooking orzo to the perfect al dente is crucial for this dish, as it ensures the pasta maintains its shape and provides a pleasing bite. Always check the package instructions for recommended cooking times, generally ranging from 8 to 10 minutes. Start tasting the orzo a minute or two before the package suggests; it should be tender yet firm without being mushy.

If you find yourself with leftover orzo, try scaling up the broth slightly, as it absorbs liquid even after cooking. Adding a splash of extra broth or water when reheating will help retain that creamy consistency. Skipping the rinse after boiling is advisable too; the starch on the pasta helps thicken the sauce and bind everything together nicely.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

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

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and stir in the orzo. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Creamify

Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated easily, making it a great meal prep option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're preparing Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back that creamy texture, as leftover orzo can dry out in the fridge. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.

Freezing is also an option, although the creaminess might be affected. Cool the orzo completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. For the best results, consume frozen portions within 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating steps with added liquid.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to personalize your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo! You can incorporate other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be mixed in to create a heartier meal.

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a combination of Greek yogurt and a bit of the reserved vegetable broth. This still provides creaminess while adding a tangy flavor, making it a great option for those who are health-conscious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add more fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo?

It's best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.