Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Veggie Orzo sitting in pan with gold handles.

Creamy Veggie Orzo

Patricia Martinescu from Bake Cook Repeat
When I don't know what to make for dinner, this Creamy Veggie Orzo is the perfect recipe.
5 from 8 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 8
Calories 585 kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 16 ounces orzo
  • 1/4 cup pasta water
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups Parmesan cheese freshly shredded
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 large red bell pepper sliced
  • 12 ounces mushrooms sliced
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 Tablespoons butter unsalted

For the seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning plus additional, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Click between "US Customary" or "Metric" button above to switch between conversions. For precise results, it's recommended to weigh your dry ingredients using a digital scale in grams as measuring in cups can have uncertainties.

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Cook orzo per package instructions until al dente. Don't over-cook as it will continue to cook when you add it to the sauce. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and set aside.
    16 ounces orzo
  • In a large pan or Dutch oven, add butter, diced onions and minced garlic cloves. Cook for 5-7 minutes on medium heat until soft, fragrant and translucent.
    1 medium yellow onion, 6 cloves garlic, 4 Tablespoons butter
  • Add the seasonings, sliced mushrooms and red peppers. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the mushrooms are caramelized and the red peppers are soft.
    12 ounces mushrooms, 1 large red bell pepper
  • Add the heavy whipping cream and pasta water to the sautéed veggies. Bring to a simmer for at least 10 minutes, then add freshly grated Parmesan and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 15-18 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
    2 cups heavy whipping cream, 2 cups Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 cup pasta water
  • Add in cooked orzo and chopped spinach. Simmer on medium-low heat until the sauce is thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly to your preference. Enjoy served warm or cold.
    2 cups fresh baby spinach, 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Nutrition

Calories: 585kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 22gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 99mgSodium: 615mgPotassium: 422mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2011IUVitamin C: 29mgCalcium: 360mgIron: 1mg

The provided nutritional value above is an estimate per serving. 100% accuracy is not guarenteed. Please see Nutrition Information Disclaimer in our Privacy Policy.

Nutrition Information Disclaimer
Keyword Easy dinner, Easy recipes, One-pot meals
Have you tried this recipe?Please leave a comment/review below!