Creamy, cheesy, spinach orzo pasta is the perfect side dish for any meal. A big bowl on its own works too. It’s just delicious.
This cheesy spinach parmesan orzo is the perfect comfort food! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
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This parmesan orzo with spinach dish is made in one pot. Easy and totally customizable. You can easily add more veggies and more cheese. The orzo cooks in one pot with broth, no draining, which makes it creamy from the start. The parmesan adds another element of creamy, plus nice and cheesy. Lastly, you stir in the spinach. I like to give the spinach a good chop so it’s in smaller pieces.
If you’re craving something healthy but comforting, this dish is great. This cheesy spinach parmesan orzo is the perfect balance of both! With a creamy sauce, savory Parmesan cheese, and nutrient-rich spinach, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. I love pairing it with salmon or baked chicken for a protein balance. Perfecto!
Ingredients
- Orzo
- Spinach
- Parmesan
- Chicken or vegetable stock
- Lemon
- Garlic
- Cream Cheese
- Butter and oil
How to make Parmesan orzo with spinach
- In a large stock pot, heat butter and a little oil. Saute the onion for a few minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic, season well with salt and pepper.
- Add the orzo and toast for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow to cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the lid, if the liquid is absorbed, it’s done. If not, allow to cook for another minute. Stir through parm, heavy cream, then spinach. Give a squeeze of half a large lemon, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips and common questions for spinach orzo
- How to serve this pasta dish. I love this alongside a protein like salmon or chicken. You can also add more veggies, like broccoli or peas, to make it even more substantial.
- Can this be made ahead of time? Yes, but when warming it up, you may want to add a little more broth and cheese to bring back the creaminess.
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Creamy Parmesan Orza Pasta with Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 lb box orzo
- 1 32oz box chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 5 oz baby spinach, chopped I like chopping it pretty small
- 4 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small lemon
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large stock pot, heat butter and oil on medium. Saute the onion for a few minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic, season well with salt and pepper and garlic powder. Cook for a minute.
- Add the orzo and toast for a couple minutes. Pour in the stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover pot and allow to cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the lid, if the liquid is absorbed, it's done. If not, allow to cook for another minute. Stir through parm, cream cheese, heavy cream, then spinach. Squeeze the juice of a small lemon or half a large, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Store leftovers in the fridge, covered. When you reheat, add a little broth (or splash of water) and more cheese to bring back the creaminess.
When do you put in the cream cheese?
Updated! When you stir in the parm.