Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you’re searching for a dish that delivers pure comfort and comes together in a flash, look no further than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo. This irresistible one-pot wonder features silky orzo pasta bathed in a rich, garlicky sauce, finished with a generous shower of Parmesan. Each spoonful is dreamy, with just the right balance of savory cheese and aromatic garlic, making it perfect as a side or a star on its own. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant addition to your next gathering, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is bound to become your new go-to!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the beauty of simple ingredients: each item in this lineup plays a starring role, coming together to create the luscious taste, creamy texture, and inviting color you crave. The best part? You probably already have everything in your kitchen!

Olive oil: Adds depth and helps the butter blend smoothly while sautéeing the garlic.
Unsalted butter: Creates a rich, velvety foundation for that unmistakable creamy texture.
Garlic (minced): The heart of this dish, bringing bold aroma and flavor to every bite.
Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks up tender and soaks in all the creamy goodness.
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Infuses the orzo with savory flavor and ensures the sauce is never bland.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luxurious, silky consistency.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The star cheese—salty, nutty, and guaranteed to melt beautifully for that signature finish.
Salt (or to taste): Heightens all the flavors, so don’t skip the final seasoning.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and rounds out the dish’s flavor profile.
Italian seasoning (optional): Provides a subtle herbal note if you want a touch more complexity.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye so the garlic turns fragrant but doesn’t brown—this step is key for infusing the whole dish with that delicious garlicky foundation.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Pour in the orzo pasta and stir well to coat every grain in the garlicky butter. Toast the orzo for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. This little step unlocks a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from getting mushy later.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Add the chicken broth (or vegetable broth, if you prefer) and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover your pan, and let the orzo simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Give it a quick stir now and then—when the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, you’re ready for the creamy finale.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Uncover the pan and pour in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Stir until everything melts together into a thick, creamy sauce. Let the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo cook for another minute or two, just until it’s luxuriously smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the heat and let the orzo sit for a couple of minutes—it thickens up perfectly as it rests. Finish by scattering fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo while it’s still steamy and luscious!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a dusting of fresh parsley take Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo from comforting to restaurant-worthy. For a little zing, add a crack of black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is endlessly versatile. Pair Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or sautéed shrimp for a complete meal. It also makes a standout companion to roasted veggies or a crisp green salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or make it the base for a build-your-own bowl with toppings like sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach. It’s even gorgeous piled high in a rustic serving bowl for family-style dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as crave-worthy as the first serving.

Freezing

While Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Let it cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight—just know that the texture may be a bit softer after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the orzo gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. Stir well and heat until steaming—good as new!

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to lighten things up, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo will still be rich and satisfying, just a touch less decadent.

What’s the best way to make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and double-check your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly. You’ll keep all the creaminess and flavor without any meat.

Can I add vegetables or protein?

Definitely—this dish is perfect for customization. Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, mushrooms, or even cooked chicken or shrimp to turn Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo into a one-bowl meal.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally as the orzo simmers, especially as it nears the end of cooking. If it looks too thick, add a splash more broth to keep everything moving and silky.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a fantastic choice for gatherings! Just use a larger pot and keep an eye on the liquid, adding a bit more broth if needed as the pasta cooks.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo—it’s cozy, luxurious, and endlessly adaptable. If you’re ready for a dish that always wins rave reviews, bring this creamy delight to your table and see just how quickly it disappears!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a rich and comforting Italian-inspired side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a flavorful garlic-infused broth, then blended with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a luscious texture. This quick stovetop recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 1/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it does not brown.
Toast orzo: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is lightly toasted for added flavor and texture.
Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks evenly until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken into a creamy consistency and the flavors to meld.
Rest and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the orzo sit for a few minutes to thicken further. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For a full meal, add sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the final cooking stage.
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon for a complete dinner.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce richness without sacrificing creaminess.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired