Description
Creamy Orzo Pasta with Spinach, Bacon, and Tomatoes is a rich, comforting one-pan dish loaded with savory bacon, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes in a creamy parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Discard excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Add olive oil and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add orzo and stir to coat in the oil. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, cooked bacon, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until spinach wilts and everything is heated through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- You can use milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg