Creamy Spinach Garlic Orzo

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love experimenting with pasta dishes, and this Creamy Spinach Garlic Orzo is no exception. The combination of tender orzo, fresh spinach, and rich garlic in a creamy sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors. It's the kind of dish that feels comforting and indulgent, yet is surprisingly easy to make. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this orzo recipe has quickly become one of my favorites, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:28:16.091Z

When I first made this Creamy Spinach Garlic Orzo, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. I sautéed the garlic until fragrant and added the spinach, watching it wilt beautifully. The key to achieving that luscious creaminess without overcooking the orzo was all about timing and the right amount of liquid, which I learned the hard way. My tip? Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining—it's a game changer!

One memorable evening, I paired this orzo with grilled chicken and a side salad, making for a well-rounded meal that everyone raved about. It's so versatile; you can easily customize it by adding in other veggies or proteins. With each bite, I felt I truly uncovered the secret to comfort food.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, mouthwatering sauce that envelops tender orzo
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Cooking the Orzo Perfectly

The key to achieving that delightful al dente texture with orzo is to carefully monitor your cooking time. When boiling the orzo, set a timer for 8 minutes but start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier. You want it tender yet slightly firm in the center. This slight resilience will hold up well when mixed with the creamy sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Make sure to taste a piece to ensure it’s just right.

Don’t forget to reserve that 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be a game-changer when it’s time to combine everything. If your sauce turns out too thick, adding a splash of this reserved water can help achieve the right creamy consistency without losing flavor.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The use of fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant green color to your dish but also infuses it with essential vitamins and minerals. If you’re looking to amp up the flavors even more, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg to the creamy sauce. These elements create a brighter flavor and enhance the garlic’s aromatic qualities, balancing the richness of the cream beautifully.

If you're a fan of additional textures, throw in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving. They add a lovely crunch and pair wonderfully with the creaminess of the orzo. You can easily toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Garlic Orzo

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Create the Sauce

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and vegetable broth. Allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the cooked orzo and reserved pasta water.

Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve the creamy orzo warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a colorful twist. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors!

Storage and Reheating

This creamy orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or additional heavy cream to prevent it from drying out. Heat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy texture.

Freezing is another option, though it's recommended for the orzo without the creamy sauce if you're planning to save it for later. You can freeze the cooked orzo in portions and then make the sauce fresh when you're ready to serve. This ensures the best texture and flavor when you finally enjoy your meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes! Swap out the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or arugula, which can deliver different flavor profiles and nutritional benefits. Additionally, to add protein, you could mix in cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp toward the end of cooking.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk. It will impart a subtle sweetness while keeping the dish creamy. However, remember to adjust the seasoning, as coconut milk can alter the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or elbow macaroni, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free orzo or another suitable pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and skip the cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.