Creamy Spinach and Bacon Orzo Skillet
Creamy Spinach and Bacon Orzo Skillet is a delightful one-pot dish that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tender orzo, and fresh spinach in a luscious creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. With its vibrant presentation and comforting flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and friends while providing a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent, then add minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to simmer until orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
- Once cooked, pour in heavy cream and fold in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Swap spinach for kale or add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for variation.