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 cup canned diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo on busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet quick. The combination of orzo cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, coupled with vibrant vegetables, makes every bite a delight. I often use whatever vegetables I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:13:34.750Z

When I first tried this Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo, I was amazed at how easily it came together in one pot. I find that cooking the orzo directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all the flavors, making it incredibly tasty. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

A tip I picked up is to sauté the vegetables until they’re just tender before adding the orzo. This way, they retain some texture and add a lovely bite to the dish. Trust me, this dish will become a weekly favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of orzo
Packed with fresh vegetables for added nutrition
One-pot meal for easy cleanup

      

Mastering the Creamy Texture

The key to achieving that rich and creamy texture in your Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo lies in the balance between heavy cream and the starch released by the orzo as it cooks. Make sure to stir slowly while adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. Also, keep the heat at a low simmer when incorporating the cream; this allows the flavors to meld together without separating. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of additional vegetable broth can help achieve your desired consistency.

Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also adds an extra layer of creaminess. Be sure to incorporate the cheese while the orzo is still hot. This helps it melt and blend seamlessly into the dish, contributing to a beautifully rich sauce. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk mixed with a thickening agent like cornstarch.

Vegetable Variations and Roles

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. While the recipe calls for spinach, bell pepper, and zucchini, feel free to experiment with seasonal favorites like asparagus, peas, or even kale. Just ensure that firmer vegetables like carrots or broccoli are chopped smaller or lightly steamed beforehand to maintain a tender texture that complements the orzo. I find that colorful veggies not only make the dish visually appealing but also increase the nutritional value, challenging the palate with different flavors.

For those looking to add protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or cooked chicken along with the orzo for a heftier meal. Beans can be added during the final stages of cooking to heat through, while chicken should be pre-cooked, chopped, and mixed in just before serving. This way, you maintain the delicate balance of flavors and ensure a satisfying meal without sacrificing the creamy sauce's integrity.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo

Main Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Make sure all your vegetables are prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions for Cooking Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, and sauté until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Orzo

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, then bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo and reduce the heat to a simmer, cooking for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is al dente.

Stir in Cream and Spinach

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted and everything is heated through.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

This dish is best served warm and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do so on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Be sure to add a tablespoon of vegetable broth or a splash of extra cream to restore its creamy consistency as the orzo absorbs moisture when cooled. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the prepared dish. Place the cooled orzo in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator then reheat on the stovetop. An added benefit of freezing is the flavors often deepen while sitting, making it even more delicious upon reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tomato Veggie Orzo can be served as a main dish, but it also works wonderfully as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. To elevate the meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This contrasts the creaminess and adds freshness—a perfect balance to the rich orzo.

For an extra touch, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley over the dish before serving. This not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness that complements the rich, creamy sauce. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a welcome heat if you prefer a bit of spice in your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook it right before serving.