Creamy Tuscan Orzo (Printable Version)

Tender orzo simmered with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan in a rich, creamy sauce inspired by Tuscan flavors.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 cup orzo pasta

→ Dairy

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Vegetables

05 - 1 cup baby spinach
06 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
07 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Broth

09 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Seasoning

10 - 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 2-3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
03 - Add orzo to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1 minute to lightly toast and enhance nutty flavor.
04 - Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
05 - Cook orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Pour in heavy cream, dried thyme, and chili flakes. Mix well and simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
07 - Fold in baby spinach and Parmesan cheese. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts completely. Season with salt and pepper.
08 - Remove from heat immediately. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The orzo cooks directly in the skillet, creating that starch thickened magic that restaurants rely on
  • Sun-dried tomatoes bring an umami punch that makes even a simple dinner feel special
02 -
  • Orzo keeps absorbing liquid even off heat, so if you are making this ahead, thin it with a splash of broth before serving
  • Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil need draining, but reserve that oil for another use
03 -
  • Grate your own Parmesan because pre grated cheese has anti caking agents that prevent smooth melting
  • Reserve some pasta water if the sauce gets too thick

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