Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and crowd-pleaser, look no further than Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas. This irresistibly creamy, one-pot wonder brings together tender orzo pasta, sweet green peas, and luscious Parmesan cheese for a side dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe is a true go-to that’s as easy as it is delicious. The combination of flavors and textures makes Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas a staple you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays its part: from the nutty Parmesan that gives depth, to the peas that add a pop of sweetness and color. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each is essential.
- Olive oil: Adds a delicate fruitiness and helps sauté your aromatics to perfection.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a rich, silky texture and balances the flavors.
- Shallot or onion: Offers a subtle, savory backbone that infuses the orzo with aromatic sweetness.
- Garlic: Lends a gentle heat and irresistible aroma—don’t skip this!
- Orzo pasta: The star of the show, orzo cooks up tender and creamy, soaking up all the flavors.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the pasta with savory goodness and keeps the dish from tasting flat.
- Frozen peas (thawed): Adds color, freshness, and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo for a nutty, cheesy finish that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Heavy cream: Creates that signature creamy texture—pure comfort in every bite.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste and adjust at the end for best results.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top brightens everything and gives a fresh finish.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, toss in the chopped shallot (or onion). Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s softened and translucent—this step builds the flavor foundation. Add the minced garlic, letting it cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. The kitchen will already smell amazing!
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Stir the orzo right into the pan with the aromatics, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the orzo to get just a touch of golden color—this toasting step adds a subtle nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from turning mushy later on.
Step 3: Simmer with Broth
Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking—the orzo should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed by the end. This is where the orzo soaks up all that savory goodness.
Step 4: Finish with Peas, Parmesan, and Cream
Now comes the magic! Stir in the peas, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the peas are bright green and warmed through, and the mixture turns decadently creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Your Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Garnishes
Top your Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas with a shower of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, add a little extra grated Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper. A tiny drizzle of good olive oil is also delightful right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish is versatile enough to pair with almost anything! It’s a perfect sidekick for roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or sautéed shrimp. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even as a main course topped with a fried egg for a quick vegetarian dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party starter, or spoon it into a big, rustic bowl for family-style feasting. You can even use it as the bed for roasted veggies or sliced steak to turn it into a hearty main course. Try mixing in wilted spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a little twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making for delicious lunches or easy side dishes throughout the week.
Freezing
While orzo dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to one month. Be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, but a quick stir and a splash of cream can revive it.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the orzo in a saucepan with a splash of broth, milk, or cream. Warm over low heat, stirring gently, until heated through and creamy again. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a bit of extra liquid to keep it luscious.
FAQs
Can I use rice instead of orzo?
While rice will yield a different texture, you can try using Arborio or short-grain rice for a similarly creamy result. Adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed, since rice will take longer to cook than orzo.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or even use whole milk for a lighter version. The dish will still be creamy, just a bit less rich.
Can I make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for vegan margarine, use vegetable broth, and opt for a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan-style cheese. The result will still be cozy and delicious.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Definitely—this dish is endlessly customizable. Try stirring in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus. For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu are fantastic additions.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries! While fresh parsley adds a bright finish, you can skip it or use other fresh herbs like basil, chives, or even a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas enough—it’s cozy, quick, and guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself or a table full of friends, give this dish a try and watch it disappear in no time!
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Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is a luscious and comforting Italian-inspired side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in savory broth, enriched with Parmesan cheese, cream, and sweet peas. This simple one-pot recipe delivers rich flavors and a creamy texture perfect for serving alongside chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot or 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the base fats and aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Toast the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the orzo to lightly toast and develop a nutty aroma without browning.
- Add the broth and simmer: Pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate cream, cheese, and peas: Stir in the thawed peas, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Season and serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to brighten or add heat.
- This dish pairs excellently as a side with grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- The dish can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
