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If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place! Parmesan Spinach Orzo is a creamy, one-skillet wonder that’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course. The tender orzo, rich Parmesan, and vibrant spinach come together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Trust me—once you’ve made this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Spinach Orzo
This recipe has everything going for it:
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total cook time of 25 minutes, you’ll have dinner on the table faster than takeout.
- Versatile: Serve it as a creamy side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a comforting vegetarian main course.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite of orzo.
- Nutritious Spinach Boost: Spinach adds color, texture, and nutrients to the dish. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some greens!
What Does Parmesan Spinach Orzo Taste Like?
Think of it as a cross between risotto and mac and cheese—but without the effort! The orzo pasta soaks up the creamy, cheesy sauce, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor. Garlic and thyme bring warmth and depth, making each bite a delightful balance of richness and brightness.
Benefits of Parmesan Spinach Orzo
- Quick to Make: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and Indulgent: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor feel like a warm hug.
- Customizable: Add protein, swap in different greens, or spice it up to make it your own.
- One-Skillet Meal: Fewer dishes to clean—always a win!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup orzo pasta: A rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: For that aromatic base.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: A nutrient-packed green that wilts perfectly in the dish.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient, bringing a nutty, cheesy goodness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herb that complements the garlic and spinach.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and balance the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium pot for cooking the orzo.
- Large skillet for making the sauce and combining everything.
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
- Strainer for draining the orzo.
How to Make Parmesan Spinach Orzo
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Once tender, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted and vibrant green.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried thyme. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
What to Serve with Parmesan Spinach Orzo
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains and sides! Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: For a hearty protein boost.
- Salmon or Shrimp: Seafood complements the creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Use it to scoop up the creamy sauce—delicious!
Tips for the Best Parmesan Spinach Orzo
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Slightly undercook it before adding it to the skillet, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan won’t melt as smoothly, so grate it fresh for the creamiest results.
- Customize the Greens: Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard if you prefer.
- Add a Protein: Toss in shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
How to Store Parmesan Spinach Orzo
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice-shaped gluten-free pasta alternatives.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. To thicken it, you can add a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water.
What other cheeses can I use?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes with similar flavor profiles.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter, dairy-free cream (like coconut cream), and vegan Parmesan. Also, ensure you’re using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
A Dish to Savor and Share
Parmesan Spinach Orzo is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all while being quick and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.
I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Leave a comment below, share your photos on Pinterest at EmmaRecipes18, or tag me on Instagram—I’m always thrilled to see your creations.
If you loved this recipe, check out these other creamy and comforting dishes:
- Creamy Cranberry and Spinach Orzo Recipe
- No-Knead Cranberry Nut Bread Recipe
- Roasted Cranberry Cinnamon Goat Cheese Flatbread
Happy cooking! 🌿
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 2g

Parmesan Spinach Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Parmesan Spinach Orzo is a quick and comforting one-skillet dish that’s perfect as a side or light main course. The tender orzo is tossed in a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce with fresh spinach, garlic, and a hint of thyme. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy and versatile recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it with grilled chicken, salmon, or roasted veggies for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried thyme. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap spinach with kale or arugula if desired. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
- Protein Additions: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta alternatives.
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and vegan Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (¼ of the recipe)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg