Creamy Orzo is the kind of easy, comforting pasta dish that comes together quickly and delivers big flavor. With orzo toasted in butter and garlic, simmered in broth, then finished with heavy cream, Parmesan and wilting spinach, this one-pot meal hits the spot. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick fall meal.
Prep Time: ~5 minutes
Cook Time: ~20 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, extra Parmesan, lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
➜ Melt the butter and warm olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add shallot and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
➜ Add garlic and lemon zest, then stir in the uncooked orzo; reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until some orzo pieces turn light golden.
➜ Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring often to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick and the liquid reduces. The orzo is done when al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed.
➜ Remove from heat and stir in fresh spinach, heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the orzo becomes creamy.
➜ Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes, basil, extra Parmesan or lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm.
Pro Tips (FAQ-style)
Can I add vegetables or protein?
Yes — stir in veggies like broccoli, mushrooms or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. To make it a main dish, add cooked chicken, sausage or shrimp.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare up to the cooking stage and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir often during simmering, use adequate broth, and avoid overcooking so it doesn’t dry out.
Nutrition Summary
A creamy, cheesy orzo pasta dish with butter, cream and Parmesan for a rich yet quick meal.
Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar
1 serving ≈ 261 kcal | ~7 g | ~23 g | ~14 g | ~1 g | ~2 g Two Peas & Their Pod
Nutrition facts are estimated.
