Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal can often feel like a daunting task. Enter One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Orzo, a delightful dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also simplifies the cooking process. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of one-pan meals, offering a creamy, savory experience with minimal cleanup. Imagine a hearty bowl of orzo pasta, enveloped in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce—it's comfort food at its finest.

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Discover the effortless delight of One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Orzo, a creamy and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pan recipe combines tender orzo with aromatic garlic, savory onions, and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup. Packed with nutritional benefits, orzo makes this dish versatile and adaptable to various diets. Experience the joy of cooking with just one pan, and enjoy a satisfying meal in no time!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing it to become fragrant without burning.

    Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta into the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the orzo is well combined. Toast the orzo for around 2-3 minutes, allowing it to turn lightly golden and release a nutty aroma.

      Add Broth and Herbs: Carefully pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet, sprinkling the dried Italian herbs over the top. Stir the mixture to ensure the orzo is evenly dispersed and fully submerged in the liquid.

        Cook the Orzo: Increase the heat until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

          Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Once the orzo is cooked to your desired tenderness, add the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese directly into the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, resulting in a creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the orzo immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges on the side to add a refreshing, zesty flavor when squeezed over the dish.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4