Creamy Garlic Orzo with Spinach & Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 12 ouncesorzo pasta
- 5 ouncesspinach (fresh)
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 3 cupschicken broth
- ½ cupheavy cream
- ¾ cupParmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 tablespoonsbutter
- 2 tablespoonsolive oil
- ¼ cuppanko breadcrumbs
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
Method
- 01
Melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add breadcrumbs and toast, stirring often, until golden and crispy, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- 02
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 03
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring occasionally, for 12 to 14 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- 04
Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the spinach in handfuls, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- 05
Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste.
- 06
Divide among bowls and top each serving with crispy breadcrumbs.
Spice Tips
For warmth, add a small pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the cream and spinach. A grating of fresh nutmeg stirred into the cream adds subtle comfort.
Stir the orzo frequently as it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even absorption of the broth. For extra richness, use vegetable or chicken broth made from scratch.