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Creamy Boursin Crab Orzo Recipe

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3.8 from 37 reviews

This creamy Boursin crab orzo is a quick and elegant one-pan meal perfect for seafood lovers. Tender orzo pasta is toasted and simmered in flavorful broth, then combined with rich, garlicky Boursin cheese, fresh spinach, and succulent crab meat. With bright notes of lemon and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, this dish is a comforting and sophisticated dinner ready in just 25 minutes.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup dry orzo
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

Cheese and Protein

  • 1 (5.2 oz.) package Boursin cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs)
  • 8 ounces crab meat

Vegetables and Seasoning

  • 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions

  1. Toast Orzo: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add dry orzo and toast for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring frequently until lightly golden.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Simmer Orzo: Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook the orzo for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Add Boursin Cheese: Stir in the Boursin cheese until it fully melts and creates a creamy sauce coating the orzo.
  5. Wilt Spinach: Add fresh spinach if using, and allow it to wilt into the creamy orzo mixture.
  6. Fold in Crab Meat: Gently fold in the crab meat, taking care not to overmix so that the crab stays in chunks.
  7. Season: Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
  8. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of remaining broth to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
  9. Serve: Serve the creamy crab orzo warm, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and fresh flavor.

Notes

  • Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute crab meat with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts.
  • For a dairy-free variation, omit Boursin and use a creamy dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Adjust the amount of broth for desired sauce thickness.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American