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This Cheesy Orzo recipe is a creamy and delicious side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare and accompanies an array of main dishes, such as chicken, shrimp or this Pan-Seared Sea Scallops recipe.
This creamy cheesy orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with a nutritious handful of spinach, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper and a hint of crushed red pepper. The result is a delectable side dish that’s both comforting and a little zesty.
Not big on the zesty part? Simply omit the crushed red pepper for a savory, creamy orzo recipe your entire family will enjoy.
Recipe Ingredients
- Orzo
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly cracked pepper
- Crushed red pepper (optional)
What is Orzo?
If you’re not familiar with orzo, I’m so glad you chose to start with this recipe. Despite its rice-shaped appearance, orzo is actually pasta. It’s light, versatile and its texture is perfect for including in casseroles, soups, salads and side dishes, like this Easy Cheesy Orzo.
There are many varieties of orzo on the market. My local grocery carries whole wheat orzo, which is our family’s preference. I’ve also seen gluten-free varieties and specialty orzo pastas such as chickpea, tri-color and even high-protein, low-carb versions. Any of these options will work perfectly in this creamy orzo recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Cheesy Orzo is a delicious accompaniment to grilled chicken, steak, fish, or as part of a vegetarian pasta bowl. Pair it with our Creamy Dijon Chicken or in place of the fettucine in our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes. This recipe would also would also make a great addition to this Pan-Seared Sea Scallops recipe.
Not big on crushed red pepper? Sprinkle with extra grated parmesan instead!
Storage + Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the cheesy orzo in a microwave-safe container and gently heat in the microwave until the parmesan is melted.
Easy Cheesy Orzo FAQs
Is orzo healthier than pasta?
Orzo is a type of pasta, so the nutrition information is going to be the same as any other pasta make from the same ingredients. That said, there are healthy versions of orzo that include chickpea orzo, whole wheat orzo and gluten-free orzo. Anytime you’re choosing plant-based or whole wheat over refined white pasta you’re making a healthier choice.
How do you keep cheesy orzo from getting mushy?
Just like any other varieties of pasta, you want your orzo tender, but not overcooked. Boil orzo according to the package directions or until the texture is firm and chewy. Immediately drain the orzo in a colander and prepare the recipe for serving.
Can I prepare this creamy orzo recipe in advance for meal prepping?
Yes. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm in the microwave (in a microwave-safe container, of course) until the pasta is warm and the parmesan has melted. Careful not to dry out the pasta by heating it for too long. A little drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil can help keep it moist. Please note that this recipe is best served fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Easy Cheesy Orzo
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces orzo
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 ounces freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper for garnish
- Crushed red pepper for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding a dash of salt and 1 tablespoon of the extra-virgin olive oil. Cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and immediately return to the hot pot. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and the fresh spinach, stirring to combine. The pasta will still be hot, which should nicely wilt the spinach.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the orzo is creamy.
- Garnish the pasta with freshly cracked black pepper and crushed red pepper (optional). Enjoy immediately.
