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One-Pan Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo

A close-up of creamy orzo pasta mixed with wilted spinach and topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Make this easy, one-pan creamy lemon Parmesan orzo for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish. This recipe delivers bright citrus notes and rich cheese flavor with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the sauce is creamy.
  6. Fold in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the orzo.
  7. Serve immediately, topping each portion with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken or cooked Italian sausage when you add the cream.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth if you are watching your sodium intake.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/creamy-lemon-parmesan-orzo-pasta-recipe/