Go Back
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 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
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
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked orzo and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer
  4. 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.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in ricotta cheese, cream, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy.
  6. Fold in the spinach until evenly distributed.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.