Description

This creamy spinach orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a flavorful blend of vegetable broth and milk, enriched with cream cheese and Parmesan. Fresh baby spinach adds a vibrant touch, making this a satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo & Veggies

1 cup orzo pasta (approximately 7 oz)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped (4.2 oz)

Dairy & Liquids

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth (16 fl oz)
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (8 fl oz)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (2 oz)
1/3 cup cream cheese, softened (3 oz)

Seasonings

Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Toast Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking or burning.
Combine Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and milk, stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a steady simmer.
Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo uncovered, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This should take approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in the softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan until both are fully melted and the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
Add Spinach and Season: Mix in the roughly chopped baby spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spinach just wilts. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if desired.
Serve with Garnish: Plate the creamy spinach orzo while hot, topping each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper to taste.

Notes

You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half for a richer sauce.
For a vegan version, replace butter and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
Keep stirring frequently during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste preference.
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: creamy spinach orzo, orzo pasta recipe, easy vegetarian dinner, comfort food pasta, quick stovetop meal