Creamy 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.