30 Minutes or Less

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach

1 pot · 20 min · serves 4

Anna

Tested in my kitchen

By AnnaPublished

5.0(1)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach

Savor the irresistible taste of our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach, a comforting and creamy dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This one-pot wonder combines tender orzo pasta, creamy Parmesan sauce, and nutritious spinach for a satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Prepare to be delighted by the rich and indulgent flavors of our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach. Each mouthful offers a creamy and velvety texture, with the nutty Parmesan cheese perfectly complementing the subtle hint of garlic. The addition of fresh spinach adds a burst of color and a pop of freshness, balancing out the richness of the sauce. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this creamy orzo is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Indulge in the deliciousness of our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach, knowing that you’re enjoying a balanced meal packed with essential nutrients. Orzo pasta provides a hearty base, while spinach offers vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Opt for low-sodium broth and reduced-fat Parmesan cheese to keep the sodium and fat content in check. With its combination of taste and nutrition, our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach is a wholesome and satisfying choice for any occasion.

Potential Upgrades and Substitutes

Customize your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano, for a unique flavor profile. You can also add protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken or shrimp to make this dish more filling. For a vegan option, substitute vegetable broth and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative and tailor it to your individual preferences.

Serving Options

Serve our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach as a standalone dish or as a side to your favorite protein. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick and easy lunches or dinners. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend treat, this creamy orzo dish is sure to become a family favorite.

The recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach

Prep
5 min
Cook
15 min
Total
20 min
Servings
4
Units

Ingredients

Est. ~$0.90/serving · ~$3.61 total · US average

Plan it

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden brown.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and whole milk, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and let the orzo sit for a few minutes to thicken.
  8. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
NutritionPer serving · serves 4
≈ estimated
220calories
  • Protein10g17%
  • Carbs25g45%
  • Fat9g38%
Fiber1g4% DV
Sugars4g
Sodium590mg26% DV
Cholesterol15mg6% DV
Full Nutrition Facts label

Nutrition Facts

4 servings per recipe

Serving size1 serving

Amount per serving

Calories220

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 9g12%
Saturated Fat 3.5g18%
Trans Fat 0g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 4g
Cholesterol 15mg6%
Sodium 590mg26%
Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 10g
Vitamin D 0.9mcg4%
Calcium 200mg15%
Iron 1.4mg8%
Potassium 270mg6%
Vitamin A 140mcg15%
Vitamin C 5mg6%
Vitamin E 0.9mg6%
Vitamin K 76mcg60%
Thiamin 0.29mg25%
Riboflavin 0.3mg25%
Niacin 2.1mg15%
Vitamin B6 0.12mg8%
Folate 130mcg35%
Vitamin B12 0.45mcg20%
Magnesium 35mg8%
Zinc 1.2mg10%
Phosphorus 190mg15%

The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

An automatic estimate from the ingredients - a friendly guide, not medical advice. Real values shift with brands, sizes, and how you cook.

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