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–+ servings
Parmesan Spinach Orzo

Parmesan Spinach Orzo

A delicious and creamy Parmesan Spinach Orzo recipe perfect as a side or main dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course main dish, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 4 cups
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound dried orzo pasta about 2 ½ cups
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups packed baby spinach, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

  • Red pepper flakes (for spice)
  • Lemon zest (for brightness)
  • Nutmeg (for warmth)
  • Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes (for depth)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat.
  • Add diced onions and cook for 3 minutes, until softened.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Toast the Orzo

  • Add the orzo pasta to the pot, stirring to coat in oil.
  • Cook for 1-2 minutes until the orzo turns lightly golden.

Cook the Orzo

  • Pour in the broth and milk, stirring well.
  • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Add the Spinach & Parmesan

  • Stir in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt into the orzo.
  • Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve & Enjoy

  • Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
  • Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Notes

For a richer dish, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add protein, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Leftovers? Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
Keyword comfort food, Italian cuisine, orzo recipe, Parmesan Spinach Orzo, Pasta Dish, vegetable pasta
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