Creamy Spinach Orzo

Name: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Orzo because it’s a delightful dish that comes together so quickly and easily! The orzo pasta absorbs the savory flavors beautifully while the creamy sauce provides a luscious texture. This recipe has become a staple in my household, and I always enjoy seeing my family’s faces light up when they take their first bite. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:49:36.626Z

I love experimenting with orzo, and this Creamy Spinach Orzo became an instant favorite. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level. I discovered that adding a touch of parmesan cheese just at the end gives it a rich flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

What truly sets this recipe apart for me is the fact that it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze. I can easily prepare it on busy weeknights without feeling overwhelmed, and it still feels special enough for weekend gatherings!

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Creamy texture that satisfies and comforts
Nutritious spinach adds a healthy twist
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

Elevating Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach in this recipe significantly enhances its flavor profile and nutritional value. The vibrant green leaves not only contribute a subtle earthiness but also bring a welcome pop of color. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can substitute with thawed frozen spinach, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the sauce to avoid making the dish watery.

The choice of broth is equally important in building the base flavor for the orzo. While vegetable broth is an excellent option for vegetarians, using chicken broth will impart a richer, more savory depth. Consider low-sodium broths to allow better control over the final seasoning, enhancing both taste and heartiness.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a splash of white wine to the garlic and spinach mixture after sautéing. This will create an added layer of flavor and complexity. Just allow it to reduce for a few minutes before incorporating the cream and cheese.

Mastering the Creamy Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in your sauce is crucial to the overall experience of Creamy Spinach Orzo. Start by heating the olive oil just enough to sauté the garlic without burning it, which can happen quickly if the heat is too high. Keep it on medium heat and stir frequently until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, as this will develop a rich flavor base.

When you add the heavy cream, ensure you do so gently. Gradually mixing the cream and parmesan allows for better emulsion, leading to a smoother, cohesive sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick after incorporating the orzo, consider adjusting the consistency with a splash of extra broth or water until you reach your desired creaminess.

If you find yourself looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk, which will alter the flavor profile slightly but still provide a creamy texture. Additionally, a combination of low-fat cream cheese and milk can work in a pinch, giving you that desired creaminess without as many calories.

Smart Serving and Storage Tips

Creamy Spinach Orzo is best enjoyed fresh because the orzo absorbs moisture over time, which could lead to a drier dish upon reheating. If you anticipate leftovers, I recommend making the orzo and sauce separately and combining them just before serving. This will help maintain the sauce's creaminess and prevent the orzo from becoming mushy.

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk to the orzo while warming it in a saucepan over low heat. This will help restore the saucy consistency you love while preventing sticking. Additionally, adding a handful of fresh spinach during the reheating process can revitalize the dish, infusing it with freshness.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the Creamy Spinach Orzo alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished dish adds a nice brightness that complements the creaminess and elevates the overall flavor experience.

Ingredients

For the orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

For the creamy sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match these ingredients based on your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine All Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until smooth. Mix in the cooked orzo, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your Creamy Spinach Orzo warm and garnish with additional parmesan if desired!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or substitute the spinach with other leafy greens like kale for a different flavor.

Adjusting Portions

This recipe for Creamy Spinach Orzo serves about four people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. To scale up for a gathering, simply double the ingredients, but be cautious to expand the cooking vessel; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking or sticking. Make sure to keep the same ratios for each component to maintain the dish's integrity.

Should you need to reduce the recipe, cutting it in half is straightforward. This adaptation is especially useful for solo dining or busy weeknights when a smaller portion is desired. Keep in mind that adjusting cooking times may be necessary, particularly with the orzo, which may cook faster in smaller batches.

Adding Your Own Flair

Feel free to customize your Creamy Spinach Orzo by incorporating other vegetables. Cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can add sweetness and acidity, while mushrooms can bring depth and umami. Add these during the spinach sautéing step, allowing them to cook down before mixing in the cream.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy mixture. This addition not only warms the dish but also contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cream and cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Spinach Orzo?

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

→ What else can I add to this dish?

You can include proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or mix in other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes or peas.