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Easy One-Pot Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

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4.5 from 159 reviews

A cozy, creamy dish of orzo pasta enveloped in garlic, spinach, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (small, rice-shaped pasta)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for extra protein)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the garlic: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Cook the orzo: Add the orzo to the pot, stirring for a minute or two to coat. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  3. Stir in the cream: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to become creamy, simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt, stirring to combine everything beautifully.
  5. Finish with cheese and protein: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and your choice of cooked chicken or shrimp. Add the lemon zest, remembering to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Notes

To keep the orzo from becoming too sticky, stir occasionally while it cooks. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor. Can double the recipe for larger gatherings.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pennykitchenz.com/one-pot-creamy-garlic-spinach-orzo/

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