{"id":1812688,"date":"2018-01-01T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2018-01-01T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/"},"modified":"2025-02-06T13:52:32","modified_gmt":"2025-02-06T19:52:32","slug":"creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","title":{"rendered":"Orzo with Spinach"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re on the hunt for a dish that effortlessly blends comfort and sophistication, look no further than creamy orzo with spinach. This delightful recipe envelopes tiny, rice-shaped pasta in a velvety sauce to make a perfect side dish or, with the addition of protein, a satisfying main course.<\/p>\n<p>Packed with roasted garlic and fresh, iron-rich spinach, it not only pleases the palate but also adds a pop of color to your plate. Whether you\u2019re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this creamy orzo dish is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.<\/p>\n<h2>Ingredients for Orzo with Spinach<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"recipe-ingredients__list recipe-ingredients__collection splitColumns\">\n<li><strong>Garlic:<\/strong> The surprise star of this show is the whole <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/roasting-garlic\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/roasting-garlic\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">roasted garlic<\/a> bulb, but if you&#8217;re a true garlic gal or guy, feel free to add a few more cloves! Not a fan? Skip it altogether.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Olive oil:<\/strong> You&#8217;ll want a high-quality olive oil to drizzle over the garlic bulb before roasting and to toast the orzo before you add the chicken stock.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Whole wheat orzo pasta:<\/strong> Although these tiny grains look like rice, they&#8217;re actually pasta, and they&#8217;re delicious in creamy velvety sauces.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Chicken stock:<\/strong> We like to boil the orzo in a flavor-packed stock instead of water for leveled-up taste.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cream cheese and milk:<\/strong> We use reduced-fat cream cheese and fat-free milk to keep things creamy yet light, but you can use the full-fat versions if you want a more decadent dish.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Spinach:<\/strong> The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ingredients\/vegetables\/spinach\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ingredients\/vegetables\/spinach\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">spinach<\/a> brings a bit of green. Opt for fresh over frozen, or your orzo could become watery instead of creamy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Asiago cheese:<\/strong> This cheese has a mild nutty taste that plays well with spinach and creamy orzo.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seasonings:<\/strong> The only two seasonings needed for this creamy orzo are salt and a salt-free garlic-pepper seasoning blend. If you want more of a kick, you could add red pepper flakes to the mix.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Parsley:<\/strong> Pasta dishes are always better when garnished with fresh herbs at the end. A smattering of minced parsley will add a peppery, herbaceous note.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Directions<\/h2>\n<h3>Step 1: Roast the garlic<\/h3>\n<p>Preheat the oven to 425\u00b0F. Remove the papery outer skin from the garlic bulb, but do not peel or separate the cloves. Cut off the top of the bulb, exposing the individual cloves inside. Drizzle the cut cloves with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil, then wrap the garlic in foil. Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cloves are soft. When it&#8217;s cool enough to handle, unwrap the bulb from the foil and squeeze the garlic cloves from the skins.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Cook the orzo<\/h3>\n<p>In a Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pasta and cook, stirring, for two to three minutes or until the orzo is lightly browned. Add the chicken stock, and bring the pan to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is absorbed.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Make it creamy<\/h3>\n<p>Stir the cream cheese into the cooked orzo until it&#8217;s melted and creamy. Add the spinach, Asiago cheese, milk, seasoning blend, salt and roasted garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2110019\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Orzo-with-Spinach_FT25_176131_JR_0123_3.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"3\/4th shot of Creamy Roasted Garlic &#038; Spinach Orzo\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">JOSH RINK FOR TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Orzo with Spinach Variations<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Add a protein:<\/strong> Although we love this vegetarian-friendly dish just as it is, it would also be delicious topped with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/top-10-grilled-chicken-recipes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/top-10-grilled-chicken-recipes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">grilled chicken<\/a>\u00a0or next to a juicy steak.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Make it Mediterranean: <\/strong>Sliced kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese will give this creamy orzo a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/favorite-mediterranean-recipes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/favorite-mediterranean-recipes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">Mediterranean<\/a> twist.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Add mushrooms:<\/strong> Sneak a few more nutritious veggies into the mix with roasted mushrooms and shallots.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Top it with fried onions:<\/strong> The flavors of this orzo dish lend themselves to a crispy, crunchy topper like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/ways-to-use-french-fried-onions\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/ways-to-use-french-fried-onions\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">fried onions<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How to Store Orzo with Spinach<\/h2>\n<p>The best thing about roasted garlic and spinach orzo? It tastes even better the next day, so don&#8217;t let one bite go to waste! Pack up any leftovers in sealed, airtight containers and place them in the fridge until you&#8217;re ready for more.<\/p>\n<h3>How long does orzo with spinach last?<\/h3>\n<p>Stored properly, this dish will stay fresh in the fridge for two to three days.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you freeze creamy spinach orzo?<\/h3>\n<p>You can, but we don&#8217;t recommend it. Considering this dish has cream cheese and cooked pasta, the texture will be different after you defrost it.<\/p>\n<h2>Orzo with Spinach Tips<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2110018\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Orzo-with-Spinach_FT25_176131_JR_0123_2.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Overhead shot of Creamy Roasted Garlic &#038; Spinach Orzo\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">JOSH RINK FOR TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>How do I make this orzo and spinach recipe less thick?<\/h3>\n<p>Try adding a little more milk or a few ladles of reserved pasta water to thin it out. You could also do a squeeze of lemon juice to add acidity.<\/p>\n<h3>How can I make this dish even creamier?<\/h3>\n<p>Double the Asiago cheese, use whole milk instead of fat-free and try an extra scoop of creme fraiche for even more creamy flavor.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I make this dish gluten-free?<\/h3>\n<p>You bet! Just replace the regular orzo with a gluten-free, grain-free version.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This side dish brings instant comfort. I first made it without spinach so my husband and daughter would like it. The next time, I added spinach for the extra health benefits. They still devoured it, so in my book that&#8217;s a win-win. \u2014Dawn Moore, Warren, Pennsylvania<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8037,"featured_media":2110769,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false},"tags":[304162,304328,305271,304998,305487,304007,304338,305334,304390,307675,303966,304988,305004,304368,303887,306848,305353,304268,307541,307514,306297,324623,304388,304313,307764,304005,304150,303883,307614,304353,304403],"categories-v2":[309439,308988,308319,308984,308481,309216,308945,310796,308554,308992,309337,308761,310649,308495,308935,308951,308745,308478,309603,309362,259483,310518,310497,312156,309177,308752,308313,310729,308549,309434,308476,310591,309005,308812],"coauthors":[343420],"recommended_recipes":[{"post_title":"Mediterranean Pork and Orzo","post_link":"\/recipes\/mediterranean-pork-and-orzo\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Mediterranean-Pork-and-Orzo_EXPS_TOHD24_23345_ChristineMa_10.jpg"},{"post_title":"Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/mediterranean-chicken-orzo-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_55602_NicolePerry_2.jpg"},{"post_title":"Orzo Pasta Salad","post_link":"\/recipes\/orzo-vegetable-salad\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/EXPS_TOHD24_48575_EricKleinberg_8.jpg"},{"post_title":"Orzo with Parmesan & Basil","post_link":"\/recipes\/orzo-with-parmesan-basil\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Orzo-with-Parmesan-Basil_EXPS_CIMZ19_35937_E09_06_9b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lemon-Olive Chicken with Orzo","post_link":"\/recipes\/lemon-olive-chicken-with-orzo\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/exps135341_SD153323D06_03_1b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Cranberry Orzo Spinach Salad","post_link":"\/recipes\/cranberry-orzo-spinach-salad\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cranberry-Orzo-Spinach-Salad_EXPS_TOHAS24_273995_DR_03_13_2b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Savory Mediterranean Orzo","post_link":"\/recipes\/savory-mediterranean-orzo\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Savory-Mediterranean-Orzo_exps48881_THCA1917912A02_08_3bC_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Orzo with Feta and Arugula","post_link":"\/recipes\/orzo-with-feta-and-arugula\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Orzo-with-Feta-and-Arugula_EXPS_SDAM19_126652_E12_04_4b-2.jpg"},{"post_title":"Roasted Veggie Orzo","post_link":"\/recipes\/roasted-veggie-orzo\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Roasted-Veggie-Orzo_EXPS_DSBZ17_42299_D01_13_2b-4.jpg"},{"post_title":"Garlic Parmesan Orzo","post_link":"\/recipes\/garlic-parmesan-orzo\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Garlic-Parmesan-Orzo_exps28605_TH1999636B02_01_4b_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Garlic Shrimp & Orzo Salad","post_link":"\/recipes\/garlic-shrimp-orzo-salad\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Garlic-Shrimp-Orzo-Salad_exps168762_CW132791B04_23_1b_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Garlic Roasted Broccoli","post_link":"\/recipes\/garlic-roasted-broccoli\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Garlic-Roasted-Broccoli_exps48922_THCA1917912C02_05_4bC_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Spinach Salad with Tortellini & Roasted Onions","post_link":"\/recipes\/spinach-salad-with-tortellini-roasted-onions\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Spinach-Salad-with-Tortellini-Roasted-Onions_EXPS_SDJJ17_201318_B02_16_2b-2.jpg"},{"post_title":"Orzo with Spinach and Pine Nuts","post_link":"\/recipes\/orzo-with-spinach-and-pine-nuts\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Orzo-with-Spinach-and-Pine-Nuts_exps112922_BAFTF2307047D03_08_16bC_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Herb Vegetable Orzo Salad","post_link":"\/recipes\/herb-vegetable-orzo-salad\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps23079__LT10502D68.jpg"},{"post_title":"Spinach Orzo Salad","post_link":"\/recipes\/spinach-orzo-salad\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Spinach-Orzo-Salad_EXPS_CWAM17_47581_C12_14_5b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Garlic-Herb Orzo Pilaf","post_link":"\/recipes\/garlic-herb-orzo-pilaf\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps31009_LT1115375D17A.jpg"},{"post_title":"Creamy Baked Spinach","post_link":"\/recipes\/creamy-baked-spinach\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/recipeFallback.jpg"},{"post_title":"Vegetable Orzo Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/vegetable-orzo-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Vegetable-Orzo-Soup_exps163577_SD2401791A10_17_1bC_RMS.jpg"}],"acf":{"long_pin":"https:\/\/tmbidigitalassetsazure.blob.core.windows.net\/rms3-prod\/attachments\/37\/1200x1200\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic---Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","long_pin_file":false,"ncv_override_generic_settings_option":false,"ncv_autoplay_option":"","ncv_stickyplay_option":"","ncv_ads_option":"","ncv_mute_option":"","ncv_comscore_option":"","ncv_autoplay_mobile_option":"","ncv_viewable_threshold_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_option":"","ncv_autopause_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_mobile_option":"","ncv_autopause_mobile_option":"","ncv_sticky_mobile_option":"","ncv_remove_player_option":false,"ncv_moat_option":""},"recipe_schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"Recipe","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","name":"Orzo with Spinach","datePublished":"2018-01-01","dateModified":"2025-02-06","prepTime":"PT35M","cookTime":"PT20M","totalTime":"PT55M","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","height":1200,"width":1200},"recipeCategory":["Side Dishes"],"description":"Add color and flavor to your plate with creamy orzo with spinach. This dish is a balance of comfort and sophistication, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.","recipeIngredient":["1 whole garlic bulb","1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided","1-3\/4 cups uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta","2-1\/2 cups chicken stock","3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed","1 package (9 ounces) fresh spinach, trimmed and chopped","1\/4 cup shredded Asiago cheese","1\/4 cup fat-free milk","1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder","1\/2 teaspoon pepper","1\/4 teaspoon salt","2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley"],"recipeInstructions":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Roast the garlic","text":"Preheat the oven to 425\u00b0F. Remove the papery outer skin from the garlic bulb, but do not peel or separate the cloves. Cut off the top of the bulb, exposing the individual cloves inside. Drizzle the cut cloves with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil, then wrap the garlic in foil. Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cloves are soft. When it's cool enough to handle, unwrap the bulb from the foil and squeeze the garlic cloves from the skins."},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Cook the orzo","text":"In a Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pasta and cook, stirring, for two to three minutes or until the orzo is lightly browned. Add the chicken stock, and bring the pan to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is absorbed."},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Make it creamy","text":"Stir the cream cheese into the cooked orzo until it's melted and creamy. Add the spinach, Asiago cheese, milk, seasoning blend, salt and roasted garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Orzo-with-Spinach_FT25_176131_JR_0123_3.jpg?fit=700,1024"}],"recipeYield":"6 servings","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Kelli Acciardo"}],"nutrition":{"@type":"NutritionInformation","calories":" 271 calories","fatContent":"8g fat (3g saturated fat)","cholesterolContent":"14mg cholesterol","sodiumContent":"422mg sodium","carbohydrateContent":"37g carbohydrate (2g sugars","fiberContent":"9g fiber)","proteinContent":"12g protein. <B><b>Diabetic Exchanges<\/b>: <\/B> 2 starch"},"aggregateRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":4.1666665,"reviewCount":6,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5},"recipeCuisine":"Europe, Italian","review":[{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2021-07-13","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"PurpleMustache"},"reviewBody":"You must add chicken to this! Cube a couple of skinless breasts and saute with olive oil, dried basil, and parsley. Add this to the final step. Use more Asiago, like double. You can also get away with more roasted garlic, another whole clove. If you want to ward of everything and everyone. It was quite tasty! Great recipe and accurate timing.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2021-12-26","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"GreenLeaf"},"reviewBody":"I made this as a side with Cornish Game Hens and a salad ... it was a huge hit!  I made it just as written except for using regular cream cheese and whole milk because that's what I had.  I wouldn't change a thing.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2014-04-14","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"CyanDog"},"reviewBody":"I have to say this was delicious but too rich for my family.  I have made it to take to carry-ins and I also switched from chopped spinach to chopped broccoli.  It was great too.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":4,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2021-03-24","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"PurpleHat"},"reviewBody":"Recipe was great.  I saw some reviews saying it was \u201cheavy\u201d so I roasted some sliced tomatoes tossed in olive oil & salt\/pepper along w the garlic (naked cloves only in aluminum) 25 minutes.  The acidity of the tomatoes brightened the dish.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2018-11-03","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"OlivePaw"},"reviewBody":"I found this dish quite heavy so I added 1\/4 more milk. I added lemon juice to try lighten the flavour and some parmesan cheese. It needed salt as I couldnt get that wow factor which I normally manage with other orzo dishes.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":3,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2014-05-07","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"OliveGuitar"},"reviewBody":"This is a very tasty and creamy recipe.  It is high in carbohydrates , however, because of the pasta. The flavor is rich. I love the zestiness of the spinach matched with the Asiago cheese.  I added fresh parmesan at the end.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":3,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}}]},"video":{"data":{"status":204},"message":"No shortcode found in recipe"},"rms_legacy_id":"176131","romance_copy_dek":"Add color and flavor to your plate with creamy orzo with spinach. This dish is a balance of comfort and sophistication, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.","enhanced_recipe_title":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo","rms_legacy_data":{"RecipeCategories":null,"Ingredients":[{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 whole garlic bulb","IngredientText":"1 whole garlic bulb"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1-3\/4 cups uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta","IngredientText":"1-3\/4 cups uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2-1\/2 cups chicken stock","IngredientText":"2-1\/2 cups chicken stock"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed","IngredientText":"3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 package (9 ounces) fresh spinach, trimmed and chopped","IngredientText":"1 package (9 ounces) fresh spinach, trimmed and chopped"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/4 cup shredded Asiago cheese","IngredientText":"1\/4 cup shredded Asiago cheese"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/4 cup fat-free milk","IngredientText":"1\/4 cup fat-free milk"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder","IngredientText":"1\/2 teaspoon garlic powder"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 teaspoon pepper","IngredientText":"1\/2 teaspoon pepper"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/4 teaspoon salt","IngredientText":"1\/4 teaspoon salt"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley","IngredientText":"2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley"}],"FeaturedImage":"https:\/\/tmbidigitalassetsazure.blob.core.windows.net\/rms3-prod\/attachments\/37\/1200x1200\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic---Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","RecipeId":176131,"AttachmentSourceId":null,"AttachmentSource":"Taste Recipes","PhotoCredit":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo Recipe photo by Taste Recipes","VideoCode":null,"RecipeAttachmentFileName":"Creamy-Roasted-Garlic---Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","ContributorId":null,"Firstname":"Dawn","Lastname":"Moore","City":"Warren","StateDescription":"Pennsylvania","IsCommunityCook":false,"TimeCallout":"Prep: 35 min. Cook: 20 min.","MinimumServingQuantity":6,"MaximumServingQuantity":6,"Yield":"6 servings.","DigitalTitle":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo","SubmittedTitle":"Roasted Garlic, Spinach, and Asiago Orzo","RecipeTypeId":1,"AverageRating":4.17,"WebPublishedDate":"1\/1\/2018 12:00:00 AM","ContestPlacementId":null,"FbImage":"FB_FT25_176131_JR_0123_3.jpg","PreparationTimeInMinutes":35,"CookTimeInMinutes":20,"TotalTimeInMinutes":55,"ServingDescription":null,"IsTestKitchenCertified":true,"IsContestWinner":true,"IsCommunityRecipe":false,"PublishedProjectTitle":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo","OriginalSourceProject":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo","ContestPlacement":"Runner-Up","Trailer":null,"Metadescription":null,"DigitalHeadnotes":"This side dish brings instant comfort. I first made it without spinach so my husband and daughter would like it. The next time, I added spinach for the extra health benefits. They still devoured it, so in my book that's a win-win. \u2014Dawn Moore, Warren, Pennsylvania","FreezerDirections":"","FreezerDirectionsTitle":"","HTMLTitle":null,"RecipeVersionNumber":null,"WorkflowStatusId":9,"Directions":[{"Direction":"Preheat oven to 425\u00b0. Remove papery outer skin from garlic bulb but do not peel or separate the cloves. Cut off top of garlic bulb, exposing individual cloves. Drizzle cut cloves with 1 teaspoon oil. Wrap in foil. Bake 30-35 minutes or until cloves are soft. Unwrap. When cool enough to handle, squeeze garlic from skins.","SequenceNo":1},{"Direction":"   In a Dutch oven, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add pasta; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned. Add stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender and liquid is absorbed.","SequenceNo":2},{"Direction":"   Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add spinach, Asiago cheese, milk, seasoning blend, salt and roasted garlic; cook and stir until spinach is wilted. Sprinkle with parsley and if desired, additional pepper.","SequenceNo":3}],"RecipeTaxonomies":{"Budget":[],"CookingStyle":[],"Course":[{"Name":"Course","ID":0},{"Name":"Pasta Side Dishes","ID":95034},{"Name":"Side Dish Recipes","ID":94294}],"Cuisine":[{"Name":"Cuisine","ID":0},{"Name":"Asian Recipes","ID":89444},{"Name":"Asian Side Dishes","ID":89460},{"Name":"Cuisine","ID":0},{"Name":"Indian Recipes","ID":89660},{"Name":"Italian Recipes","ID":89684},{"Name":"Italian Side Dishes","ID":89720}],"HealthyEating":[{"Name":"Healthy Eating","ID":0},{"Name":"Low Fat Recipes","ID":105180},{"Name":"Low Fat Side Dishes","ID":105284}],"HolidaysAndCelebrations":[],"Ingredients":[{"Name":"Ingredients","ID":0},{"Name":"Cheese Recipes","ID":100417},{"Name":"Cream Cheese Recipes","ID":100429},{"Name":"Milk","ID":102025},{"Name":"Salad Greens","ID":102033}],"Kids":[],"PartnerRecipes":[],"Publications":[{"Name":"Publication","ID":0},{"Name":"Simple Recipes","ID":107261},{"Name":"Simple Side Dishes","ID":107437},{"Name":"View All Simple Recipes","ID":107453}],"WinningRecipes":[{"Name":"Winning Recipes","ID":0},{"Name":"Winning Healthy Recipes","ID":107219},{"Name":"Winning Side Dish Recipes","ID":107227}],"Tags":[{"Name":"Cooking Style","ID":304328},{"Name":"Easy","ID":304338},{"Name":"Winning Recipes","ID":304353},{"Name":"Cuisines","ID":305271},{"Name":"Europe","ID":305334},{"Name":"Italian","ID":305353},{"Name":"Dishes & Beverages","ID":305487},{"Name":"Pasta Dishes","ID":306297},{"Name":"Gear","ID":303966},{"Name":"Dutch Oven","ID":304007},{"Name":"Stovetop Cookware","ID":304005},{"Name":"Health & Wellness","ID":304988},{"Name":"Diabetic","ID":304998},{"Name":"Healthy Eating","ID":305004},{"Name":"Holidays & Events","ID":304368},{"Name":"Fall","ID":304390},{"Name":"Seasons","ID":304388},{"Name":"Winter","ID":304403},{"Name":"Ingredients","ID":306848},{"Name":"Garlic","ID":307675},{"Name":"Orzo","ID":307541},{"Name":"Pasta","ID":307514},{"Name":"Spinach","ID":307764},{"Name":"Vegetables","ID":307614},{"Name":"Meal Types","ID":304268},{"Name":"Side Dishes","ID":304313},{"Name":"Techniques","ID":304150},{"Name":"Baking Casseroles & Savories","ID":304162},{"Name":"Recipes","ID":324623}]},"ContributorTypeId":1,"NutritionalAnalyisParagraph":"2\/3 cup: 271 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 422mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 12g protein. <B><b>Diabetic Exchanges<\/b>: <\/B> 2 starch, 1-1\/2 fat, 1 vegetable.","NoOfRatings":6,"GoogleImage16x9":"https:\/\/cdn3.tmbi.com\/toh\/GoogleImages\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic---Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","GoogleImage4x3":"https:\/\/cdn3.tmbi.com\/toh\/GoogleImagesPostCard\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic---Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","DefaultImageYn":false,"NativeRecipeTemplate":false,"IsMsn":false,"PinterestImage":"","CarouselImages":[],"SponsorLogoImage":"","SponsorID":"","GlobalCookingTips":[],"RecipeSpecificCookingTips":[]},"breadcrumb":[{"term_id":309177,"name":"Recipes","slug":"recipes","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":309112,"taxonomy":"categories-v2","description":"Browse Taste Recipes recipes by course, cooking style, cuisine, ingredient, holiday and more categories to find a new family-favorite recipe.","parent":0,"count":51279,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/"},{"term_id":310796,"name":"Dishes &amp; Beverages","slug":"dishes-beverages","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":310731,"taxonomy":"categories-v2","description":"Wondering what to make? We've got recipes for any dish and beverage you're craving, from easy dinners to rich chocolate cakes and everything in between.","parent":309177,"count":43644,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/dishes-beverages\/"},{"term_id":312156,"name":"Pasta Dishes","slug":"pasta-dishes","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":312091,"taxonomy":"categories-v2","description":"Simmer a cozy supper with these pasta dish recipes, including vegetarian pasta recipes for meatless Monday.","parent":310796,"count":2946,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/dishes-beverages\/pasta-dishes\/"}],"meta_data":{"enhanced_fields":{"enhanced_recipe_title":"Creamy Roasted Garlic & Spinach Orzo"}},"analytics":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v23.3 (Yoast SEO v23.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Easy Creamy Orzo with Spinach<\/title>\n\n\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/\" \/>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Easy Creamy Orzo with Spinach","description":"Upgrade your weeknight dinner with our orzo with spinach recipe. It's a satisfying and wholesome meal option.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Orzo with Spinach","og_description":"Upgrade your weeknight dinner with our orzo with spinach recipe. It's a satisfying and wholesome meal option.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","og_site_name":"Taste Recipes","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tasteofhome","article_modified_time":"2025-02-06T19:52:32+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":1200,"url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","twitter_site":"@tasteofhome","twitter_misc":{"Est. reading time":"5 minutes","Written by":"Kelli Acciardo"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/","name":"Easy Creamy Orzo with Spinach","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","datePublished":"2018-01-01T06:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-02-06T19:52:32+00:00","description":"Upgrade your weeknight dinner with our orzo with spinach recipe. It's a satisfying and wholesome meal option.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Creamy-Roasted-Garlic-Spinach-Orzo_EXPS_FT25_176131_JR_0123_1.jpg","width":1200,"height":1200,"caption":"Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Orzo Exps Ft25 176131 Jr 0123 1"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-roasted-garlic-spinach-orzo\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Recipes","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Recipes","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Ingredients","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ingredients\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Vegetables","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ingredients\/vegetables\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"name":"Garlic","item":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ingredients\/vegetables\/garlic\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"name":"Orzo with Spinach"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/","name":"Taste Recipes","description":"Find Recipes, Appetizers, Desserts, Holiday Recipes &amp; Healthy Cooking Tips","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#organization","name":"Taste Recipes","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/toh-logo-red.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/toh-logo-red.png","width":166,"height":125,"caption":"Taste Recipes"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tasteofhome","https:\/\/x.com\/tasteofhome","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/tasteofhome\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/taste_of_home\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/tasteofhome"]}]}},"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-05-19 02:46:25","action":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/recipe\/1812688"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/recipe"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/recipe"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8037"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1812688"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/recipe\/1812688\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2051305,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/recipe\/1812688\/revisions\/2051305"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2110769"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1812688"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1812688"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1812688"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1812688"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}