Description
Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach leaves
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
Directions
Cook Orzo:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add orzo and sauté for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
Add Liquids:
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Then pour in the broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and the sauce thickens.
Add Spinach & Cheese:
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Garnish & Serve:
Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo every time. First, gather all ingredients. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the dry orzo and sauté, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until it develops a light golden color and a nutty aroma. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant. Immediately pour in the broth and heavy cream to stop the garlic from burning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until the orzo is al dente and the sauce has thickened. Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts from the residual heat. Finally, add the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken breasts, pan-seared salmon, or simple lemon-herb shrimp. It also makes an excellent side dish for roasted meats like pork tenderloin or herb-crusted lamb chops. For a vegetarian feast, complement it with roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: sauté dry orzo in butter until golden. Add garlic, then broth and cream. Simmer until orzo is tender and sauce is thick. Off heat, stir in spinach until wilted, then mix in Parmesan and seasonings. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, small pastas like ditalini or acini di pepe work, but cooking times will vary. Traditional orzo is ideal for its rice-like shape that holds the creamy sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency, as the orzo will absorb sauce as it sits.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. If preparing ahead, cook the orzo just to al dente and expect a thicker final product upon reheating with added liquid.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Avoid milk as it may curdle.
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess water before adding it to the skillet to prevent a watery sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not boil vigorously after adding cream, as it can cause separation. Sautéing the dry orzo is crucial for flavor; don’t skip this step. Ensure you use freshly grated Parmesan from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Finally, do not overcook the orzo, as it will continue to soften in the hot sauce off the heat.
Conclusion
This Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo is the ultimate quick and satisfying comfort food. In just 20 minutes, you create a restaurant-quality dish with a luxuriously creamy texture, vibrant spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese. Its simplicity, versatility, and incredible flavor make it a guaranteed winner for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of pure, creamy goodness.