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
Scale
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)
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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
