Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo

Name: Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo, especially on a busy weeknight when I want something comforting yet quick. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy tomato sauce creates a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a delightful one-pot meal that comes together in just a short amount of time. Plus, the orzo has such a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the sauce. I often find myself making this dish more often than I thought I would because it’s too good to resist!

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:06:36.861Z

When I first tried my hand at Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a flavorful dish. I experimented with the veggies I had on hand, and it turned out to be an absolute hit! Fresh spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini added not only vibrant colors but also a variety of textures that kept every bite interesting.

The secret to achieving the creamy consistency lies in adding a splash of milk and a generous helping of cheese at the end. It creates a dreamy sauce that clings to the orzo perfectly. I can't help but make this recipe whenever I'm craving something cozy and delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Versatile: use any vegetables you have on hand
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Orzo

Cooking orzo pasta to the right texture is crucial for this dish. You want it to be al dente, which typically means boiling for about 7-9 minutes, depending on the brand. Keep an eye on it and taste a few minutes before the suggested cooking time is up. This ensures it will retain its texture even after being mixed with the creamy sauce. If overcooked, the orzo can become mushy, diluting the delightful harmony of the dish.

After draining the orzo, I recommend rinsing it under cold water briefly. This not only halts the cooking process but also helps to prevent clumping when you mix it with the other ingredients later on. Some people skip this step, which can lead to sticky pasta that doesn't integrate well with the sauce. A light toss in olive oil at this stage can also help keep the orzo separate.

Vegetable Variations

One of the beauties of this recipe is its adaptability to whatever vegetables you have on hand. While zucchini and bell peppers shine in the original version, you might consider using roasted eggplant, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. Just remember that firmer vegetables may require a longer sauté time to ensure they soften adequately, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

If you're looking to boost nutritional value, think about throwing in some chopped carrots or even sweet potatoes. These additions not only elevate the dish’s health factor but also add a vibrant pop of color and earthy taste to complement the creamy sauce. Remember to adjust the cooking time for harder vegetables, allowing them to soften properly before adding the wet ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you are all set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add diced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until softened.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Creamify

Add the spinach and cooked orzo to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your creamy dish!

Dig into this creamy comfort food that hits all the right notes!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in any seasonal vegetables to customize this dish to your liking!

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, be aware that the orzo will continue to absorb moisture, which may alter the texture slightly. To rejuvenate the dish when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or more cream to bring back some of the original creaminess. Heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until it's warmed through, being careful not to overcook.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time for meal prep, consider cooking the orzo and preparing the creamy sauce separately. You can then combine them just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming too soft. This makes it a great dish for quick lunches or dinners during busy weeks.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful meal, serve the Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This not only enhances the dining experience but also helps to soak up any leftover sauce that’s too delicious to waste. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can also complement the richness of this dish, balancing flavors beautifully.

If you’re entertaining, consider garnishing the finished dish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to elevate the presentation. A drizzle of olive oil over the top adds a glossy finish that makes the dish look even more appetizing. Pairing this with a light white wine can turn a simple weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo?

Freezing is not recommended because the cream can separate. However, you can freeze without the cream and add it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This orzo pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.