Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl (Printable)

Rich orzo pasta in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
02 - 4 cups vegetable broth

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
07 - 4 cups baby spinach

→ Dairy

08 - ¾ cup heavy cream
09 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Herbs & Seasoning

10 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
11 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan, dried Italian herbs, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is creamy.
06 - Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
07 - Serve the dish hot, optionally garnished with additional Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Creamy and hearty vegetarian main dish
  • Quick and easy, ready in 30 minutes
02 -
  • This recipe contains milk and wheat (Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, orzo pasta)
  • Check sun-dried tomato packaging for sulfites or cross-contamination
03 -
  • Add cooked white beans or grilled chicken for extra protein (if not vegetarian)
  • Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version
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