One-Pot Creamy Orzo

5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

This one-pot orzo is full of veggies and flavor. All you need is a large pot, a cutting board, and a knife and you’re all set to make this effortless meal. The veggies add flavor, texture, and nutrients while the orzo is perfectly creamy thanks to chicken stock, cream, and parmesan cheese.

One-Pot Creamy Orzo

You can add chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey to make this a more filling meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 1 zucchini chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 cup uncooked orzo
  • 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 5 oz spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream or half and half
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shredded
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute for 4-5 minutes.
  • Add garlic and zucchini, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 4 minutes.
  • Add orzo, the diced tomatoes, and chicken stock, bringing to a simmer. Reduce heat and cover, making sure it's still simmering.
  • Cook covered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the orzo does not stick to the bottom of the pot.
  • Once orzo is tender turn off the heat. Stir in the spinach and mix until wilted. Add cream or half and half and parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute the canned tomatoes for 2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes. Also, feel free to substitute any of the veggies for your favorites. Some good options are asparagus, bell peppers, or red onion. 

Let us know what you think of the recipe!

Reviews

August 8, 2023

Light but hearty, super versatile and made in a single pot — this is a perfect weeknight dinner (or meal prep) for all seasons. My fiancé kept telling me how much he liked it. I swapped some ingredients with veggies I had on hand (spinach for kale and yellow onion for red onion). Highly recommend this dish!

Nicole C.