When the day feels long and the evening invites a little comfort, this Creamy Spinach Orzo with Parmesan steps in like a warm hug. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want something that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. The combination of tender orzo and fresh spinach swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce feels like a little celebration on the plate.
One evening, after a busy day, I remember sitting by the kitchen window as the sun set, the golden light catching the steam rising from the skillet. The aroma of garlic and butter filled the air, and that moment—the gentle sizzle, the vibrant green spinach wilting softly—reminded me why simple meals often become the most memorable. Each bite was rich and silky, with just a hint of spice to keep things interesting. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a small pause, a moment to savor.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Balanced flavors with fresh spinach and sharp Parmesan create a comforting, satisfying dish.
- Versatile enough to serve as a hearty side or a light main course.
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices or proteins if you want to mix things up.
If you’re worried about complicated cooking, this recipe truly keeps it simple without sacrificing flavor. Even if you’re new to orzo or creamy sauces, the steps come together smoothly and the results are always rewarding.
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Creamy Spinach Orzo with Parmesan
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A quick and delicious creamy spinach orzo dish made with tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting side or a light main course.
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
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Is there a way to make it lighter? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the texture will be less rich.
Can I add other veggies? Absolutely. Mushrooms or cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors nicely.
What if I don’t have Parmesan? Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be good alternatives for that savory kick.
Give this creamy spinach orzo a try tonight and see how a simple dish can bring a little extra warmth to your table.