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; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo because it combines simplicity with rich flavors. The creamy texture paired with fresh spinach and nutty Parmesan can transform any weeknight dinner into something special. What I particularly enjoy about this recipe is how quickly it comes together, making it the perfect solution for busy nights when I still want to whip up something delicious and comforting. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table with just a few key ingredients.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:31:12.964Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key to achieving that rich creaminess without heavy cream lies in the gradual incorporation of the pasta cooking water. This technique not only helps to thicken the sauce but also infuses it with that delightful starchy flavor. It’s incredible how a simple addition can elevate the dish!

One evening, after a long day, I served this dish alongside grilled chicken, and it was a hit with my family! We could hardly finish the leftovers because we kept coming back for more. I love how the spinach adds nutritional value while the Parmesan brings a lovely saltiness. It’s a meal that not only satisfies but also leaves you feeling good.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting texture that's perfect for any occasion.
Rich blend of flavors from spinach and Parmesan making each bite delicious.
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

      

Mastering the Orzo Cooking Technique

Cooking orzo perfectly is essential for achieving the right texture in your Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo. Maintain a gentle boil in your broth for consistent cooking throughout the pasta. Aim for al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, which ensures the orzo will absorb the sauce without turning mushy. If you find that it's getting too soft too quickly, simply reduce the heat slightly to avoid overcooking.

Don't forget to reserve that half cup of cooking water! This starchy water is a valuable tool for adjusting the dish's consistency later on. It helps create a silky sauce while enhancing the flavor of the dish. If you ever find your dish too thick, just add a splash or two of the reserved water until you achieve your desired creaminess.

Choosing and Adding Spinach

Fresh spinach is a key player in this recipe, adding both color and nutritional value. I recommend using organic spinach when possible for the best flavor. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, even pre-washed varieties. You'll want to cook it just until wilted—about 2 to 3 minutes—which maintains its vibrant green color and will keep it from losing too many nutrients.

For a twist, experiment with other greens like kale or arugula. Both can bring unique flavors and textures to the dish. If using kale, ensure it's cooked a bit longer to soften its stems. Alternatively, leftover cooked greens can be added directly to the dish, making it a great way to utilize what's in your fridge.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I suggest reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess, rather than using the microwave, which can make the orzo gummy.

Should you want to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the orzo and sauce separately. When ready to serve, combine and heat them together, adding more cream or broth as necessary to ensure a fresh, creamy texture. This method allows you to save time without sacrificing quality on busy nights.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo

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

Preparation Steps

Cook the Orzo

In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In the same saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Return the drained orzo to the saucepan with the sautéed spinach and garlic. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.

Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if preferred.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms. You can also swap in different leafy greens, like kale or Swiss chard, for variety.

Exploring Flavor Variations

While Parmesan offers a delightful nuttiness, trying other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or fontina can bring a different flavor profile to your orzo. Pecorino adds a bit more saltiness, while fontina contributes creaminess. Always remember to adjust salt levels based on the cheese used, as some have a stronger flavor.

You can also amp up the flavor with herbs and spices. Consider adding fresh basil or thyme during the sautéing stage. A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes could give the dish a pleasant kick. Feel free to be creative—this recipe really serves as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo can stand alone as a main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables can enhance the meal’s heartiness. A light salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the dish's creaminess.

For an extra touch, finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving. The acidity of lemon cuts through the richness and brightens the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat additions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy orzo pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.