There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that feels indulgent but comes together quickly. Creamy Spinach Orzo with Parmesan is just that kind of meal—a cozy hug in a bowl after a long day. The tender orzo swirls with fresh spinach and a velvety Parmesan sauce, offering a balance of richness and freshness that’s hard to resist.
One evening, I remember coming home late and feeling drained. The kitchen was quiet except for the gentle simmer from the stove. As the butter melted and the garlic filled the air with its warm aroma, my worries started to fade. Watching the spinach wilt and the sauce thicken, the kitchen transformed into a small sanctuary. Each creamy bite was like a gentle reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and nourish myself. It’s not just a meal—it’s a little pause in a hectic day.
- Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Combines fresh spinach and Parmesan for a mix of vibrant and comforting flavors.
- Orzo pasta offers a tender, chewy texture that holds creamy sauce beautifully.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-worthy dish at home.
- Leftovers reheat well, making it a convenient choice for meal planning.
If you’re worried about making something creamy without it feeling heavy, this recipe strikes a lovely balance. The spinach adds brightness, and the Parmesan melts into a sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to sit down and unwind—forkful by forkful.
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Creamy Spinach Orzo with Parmesan
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A comforting and creamy dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with fresh spinach and finished with grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the cooked orzo, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Remove from heat and let the dish sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, frozen spinach works well—just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream? You can try half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, but the sauce might be less rich and creamy.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper? It adds a gentle kick that balances the creaminess; you can adjust or omit it based on your preference.
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely—use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free option.
How long can leftovers be stored? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently to keep the creaminess.
Give this recipe a try next time you want something comforting and quick. Save it for later, print it out, and enjoy cooking a dish that feels like a warm embrace after a busy day.