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Homemade Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo photo

Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

A quick, creamy one-pot orzo with garlic, spinach, and Parmesan that's ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot or saucepan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 medium onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach packed
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot or saucepan over medium-high heat until the butter melts.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, then add the orzo and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring often, to lightly toast the pasta.
  • Pour in the broth and heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat if needed so it bubbles gently rather than boiling vigorously.
  • Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring fairly often, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed; adjust heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  • Remove the pot from the heat, stir in the grated Parmesan and packed baby spinach until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, then cover and let sit 3–5 minutes to thicken.
  • Uncover, taste, and season with salt and pepper as needed; serve warm.

Notes

  • Orzo is a pasta and differs from rice in liquid needs.
  • If using rice, adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
  • Spinach can be omitted if desired.
  • Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.