Name: Baked Ricotta Spinach Orzo (30-Minute Creamy Skillet)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Orzo pasta (uncooked); 2 cups Vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tbsp Olive oil; 2 Cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup Whole milk ricotta cheese; ½ cup Heavy cream or half-and-half; ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 2 cups Fresh spinach ((or 1 cup frozen, thawed, and well-drained)); ¼ cup Mozzarella cheese (for topping); tsp Black pepper; ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes (optional); Salt (adjust to taste)

Flavour Quest Recipes

Baked Ricotta Spinach Orzo (30-Minute Creamy Skillet)

This Baked Ricotta Spinach Orzo is a creamy, comforting skillet dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender orzo is simmered in broth, stirred with ricotta and Parmesan, and finished in the oven until warm and bubbly. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something simple, cozy, and satisfying.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 cup Orzo pasta uncooked
2 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
1 tbsp Olive oil
2 Cloves garlic minced
1 cup Whole milk ricotta cheese
½ cup Heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
2 cups Fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed, and well-drained)
¼ cup Mozzarella cheese for topping
tsp Black pepper
¼ tsp Red pepper flakes optional
Salt adjust to taste

Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Stir in the uncooked orzo and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer
Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in ricotta cheese, cream, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the spinach until evenly distributed.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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🔄 Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor

Stir in cooked chicken or Italian sausage for added protein

Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard

Use lemon zest for a brighter finish

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or warm focaccia
Pair with a simple green salad
Finish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs
Enjoy as a complete one-pan meal

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or cream

Freezing is not recommended due to the ricotta-based sauce

💡 Tips

Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking

Use whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture

Avoid overbaking to keep the dish soft and creamy

Let the skillet rest briefly before serving

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the dish, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
A: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well.

Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, as written it’s vegetarian-friendly.

Q: Can I make this lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.