Sometimes dinner calls for something both comforting and quick, a dish that feels like a gentle hug after a long day. This creamy spinach orzo with Parmesan is exactly that kind of meal. It’s a blend of tender orzo pasta, vibrant spinach, and a luscious Parmesan sauce that comes together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for when you want to sit down and savor something deeply satisfying without the fuss.
I remember one chilly evening when the sky was heavy with rain and the house smelled faintly of wood smoke. The warmth from the skillet and the aroma of garlic melting into butter filled the kitchen. As I stirred the creamy sauce, the spinach wilted into tender green ribbons, and the Parmesan melted into a silky blanket. Sitting down with a bowl of that comforting orzo, the first spoonful was like a quiet moment of peace—rich and smooth, with just enough peppery bite to keep things interesting. It’s a simple pleasure that turns an ordinary night into a small celebration of home.
- Ready in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Combines fresh spinach with creamy Parmesan for a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Tender orzo pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully for every bite.
- Comforting and satisfying without feeling heavy.
- Easy to reheat and enjoy as leftovers for a quick meal later.
If you’re worried about creating something that feels indulgent yet wholesome, this recipe strikes that balance effortlessly. The fresh spinach adds a light, bright note that keeps the dish from being too rich, while the Parmesan gives it a savory depth that feels truly special.
PrintCreamy Spinach Orzo with Parmesan
A comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring tender orzo, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, 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
1 tablespoon olive oil
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, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
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 in the creamy sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Continue to cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo evenly.
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, frozen spinach works fine—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding so your dish doesn’t get watery.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free? You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
How spicy is this dish? The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust or omit them based on your preference.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely. Make it completely, then store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
Give this creamy spinach orzo a try next time you want a meal that feels like a quiet moment of comfort. Save it, print it, and make it your own—your cozy dinner awaits.