Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach – Fancy Yet Frugal!

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Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach recipe—a dish that feels gourmet without the hefty price tag. Creamy, garlicky, and packed with nutritious spinach, this orzo is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, all while being budget-friendly!

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers rich flavors and vibrant color in one easy, one-pot meal. Enjoy the creamy texture and cheesy finish that make this recipe a standout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Enjoy fancy flavors on a small budget.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooking together.
• Rich & Creamy: A delicious combination of garlic, Parmesan, and orzo creates a luxurious sauce.
• Nutritious: Loaded with fresh spinach for extra vitamins and fiber.
• Versatile: Serve as a side dish or a main course; perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Orzo Dish:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Tip: For an even richer flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. Pour in 4 cups of broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Pro Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Add Spinach & Creaminess

1. Once the orzo is tender, gently fold in the fresh spinach until wilted.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
3. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Step 4: Plate & Garnish

1. Transfer the creamy orzo to serving bowls.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cost Breakdown (Estimated for 4 Servings)

Prices are approximate and may vary by location. Use store brands or buy in bulk to cut costs further!

Additional Tips & Variations

Cooking & Storage Tips

• Meal Prep: This dish reheats well—store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
• Make It Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream for a lighter version.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to transform this orzo into a heartier main course.
• Vegetable Medley: Incorporate additional veggies like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh basil or thyme instead of dried herbs for a brighter, fresher taste.

Presentation Tips

• Garnishing: A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan elevate the dish visually.
• Plating: Serve in a shallow bowl to showcase the creamy texture and vibrant greens for Pinterest-worthy photos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even small shells, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. The dish will still be rich and flavorful.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the orzo and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain its creamy consistency.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: As written, it is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular orzo with a certified gluten-free pasta.

Follow KateFi.com on Pinterest for:

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For more budget-friendly cooking tips, visit Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time & Money on Family Dinners.

Related Recipes & Internal Links

Discover more affordable and delicious recipes on KateFi.com:

• One-Pot Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice – Fast, Cheap & Delicious!
• Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken – Sweet, Spicy & Under $5!
• Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff – A Rich, Creamy Dinner on a Budget

For additional inspiration on budget cooking, check out The 50 Grocery Challenge – Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach dish is the epitome of fancy yet frugal cooking. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and vibrant spinach, you get a gourmet meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious—without the high cost. Enjoy this dish as a comforting side or a satisfying main course, and share your creative twists in the comments below!

Tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite variations and serving suggestions in the comments!
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