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
Units
Scale
- 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.