Description
Creamy Spinach Bacon Orzo is a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish featuring crispy bacon, tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese and garlic. This easy stovetop recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients
Scale
Bacon and Flavorings
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
Cheese and Vegetables
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Using kitchen shears, cut the bacon strips into small pieces. Fry them in a soup pot over medium heat until crispy. This will render the bacon fat and create a flavorful base for the dish.
- Sauté Garlic and Orzo: To the same pot with the bacon and rendered grease, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and the uncooked orzo. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes, frequently stirring to toast the orzo slightly and meld flavors.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed but the dish remains creamy. Avoid a vigorous boil to prevent the liquid from evaporating too quickly.
- Finish with Cheese and Spinach: Remove the pot from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and packed baby spinach. Cover the pot and allow it to sit for 3-5 minutes so the spinach wilts and the dish thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm as a comforting main or side dish.
Notes
- Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta. You may substitute with rice, but be aware that liquid amounts and cooking times may need adjustment.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth depending on dietary preference or availability.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the dish will be less creamy.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
