One-Pan Creamy Ricotta Spinach Orzo is a rich, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting side. With tender orzo, creamy ricotta, and fresh spinach, this one-pan meal is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
- Creamy & Cheesy: Ricotta and Parmesan create a luscious texture.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a side with chicken, fish, or steak.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious meat-free option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Olive oil or butter
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Orzo pasta
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Ricotta cheese
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
- Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Add chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
- Stir in lemon zest and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper. Serve warm as a main dish or side!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Mushroom Orzo: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a little cream cheese.
- Garlic Butter Orzo: Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes! Whole wheat orzo works, but may need a few extra minutes of cooking time.
What’s the best ricotta to use?
Full-fat ricotta gives the creamiest texture, but part-skim works too.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and drain well before adding to the orzo.
What can I serve with this dish?
Grilled chicken, roasted salmon, garlic bread, or a simple salad.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan substitutes.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir frequently and add a little extra broth if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well with a little added liquid.
Can I add sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! They add a sweet, tangy flavor.
Is orzo pasta or rice?
Orzo is a type of pasta, though it looks like rice.
Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the aromatics, add broth and orzo, then pressure cook on high for 3 minutes with a quick release. Stir in ricotta and spinach after cooking.
Conclusion
One-Pan Creamy Ricotta Spinach Orzo is a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a quick dinner or a creamy side dish, this easy recipe will be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Ricotta Spinach Orzo
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Side Dish
- Method: One-Pan / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Ricotta Spinach Orzo is a quick, easy, and ultra-creamy dish packed with flavor! Made with tender orzo, fresh spinach, garlic, and creamy ricotta, it’s the perfect meatless main dish or side for chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Garlic
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2️⃣ Cook the Orzo
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3️⃣ Add Spinach & Cheese
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Reduce heat to low and mix in ricotta, Parmesan, and milk/heavy cream.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Finish with Lemon & Herbs
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and juice.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
🌶 Want More Spice? Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
🍄 Extra Veggies? Stir in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas.
🧀 Cheese Swap? Use goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta.
🍗 Add Protein? Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.