Make this Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo for a rich and satisfying side dish. Its silky texture and cheesy flavor pair perfectly with chicken or seafood.
Author:Elias Rodger
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
1 tablespoon butter
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Fold in the chopped spinach until it wilts.
Remove from heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a slightly lighter dish.
Stir frequently while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavor.