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; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Ideas

I love making Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo on busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying and delicious. This dish combines tender orzo pasta with a rich tomato sauce, fresh vegetables, and a hint of creaminess that makes every bite a delight. It's quick to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes, and it's packed with flavor that everyone in my family loves. Plus, it's easily customizable, allowing me to use whatever veggies I have on hand. I adore how it brings together comfort and simplicity in one pot.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:29:34.717Z

As I was experimenting with orzo one evening, I stumbled upon the perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors. By mixing in roasted veggies and a simple tomato sauce, I created a dish that feels both comforting and nourishing. Interestingly, I found that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end elevates the flavors beautifully, making it fresh and vibrant.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the cooler months. It's not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to sneak in more vegetables. The leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that balances with vibrant flavors
Quick one-pot dish that's easy to prepare
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The orzo pasta serves as the backbone of this dish, providing a satisfying bite that complements the sauce. It's quick to cook, with a typical al dente texture achieved in about 10-12 minutes. Using this small pasta shape creates a delightful texture, allowing the creamy tomato sauce to cling to each piece beautifully. If you want a gluten-free version, consider substituting with rice-shaped gluten-free pasta, which can mimic the texture quite well.

Crushed tomatoes form the heart of the sauce, infusing the dish with rich, tangy flavor. Opting for high-quality canned tomatoes can significantly impact the overall taste. A good brand will offer a balance of acidity and sweetness. If you prefer a slightly spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a touch of fresh chili to the sauce while it simmers.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

Sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil until they're fragrant is crucial for building the flavor base. Aim for a translucent texture but avoid browning them too much, which can lead to bitterness. Stir frequently and keep an eye on the heat; medium should suffice to release their natural sweetness without burning.

When adding the orzo and broth, ensure the mixture comes to a light boil before reducing the heat to simmer. This step helps the orzo absorb the flavors while cooking, resulting in a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially towards the end of cooking when the liquid has reduced.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo

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

Make sure to chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add the Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo, followed by the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a light boil.

Cook and Combine

Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Once the orzo is cooked, add the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Enjoy this creamy dish with a side of crusty bread for dipping!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you like, such as zucchini or mushrooms. For a lighter option, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to make it ahead, consider undercooking the orzo slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore creaminess and heat over low medium heat until warmed through. This also helps revive some of the flavors and moisture lost during refrigeration.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

You can serve this dish as a main course or as a side. If you're looking to boost the nutrition, consider adding cooked protein such as diced chicken, chickpeas, or grilled shrimp. These additions not only enhance the dish's protein content but also provide a delightful textural contrast. If you're going plant-based, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture.

For a fresh twist, try incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes during the cooking process. These can be sautéed along with the onions or added during the last few minutes of simmering for a burst of flavor and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain orzo?

Yes, whole grain orzo can be used; however, the cooking time may vary slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based cream and vegetable broth instead.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo.