Introduction:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is pure comfort in a bowl rich, silky, and loaded with flavor. Tender orzo pasta is coated in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce that’s ready in just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect side dish or meatless main when you’re craving something decadent and cozy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, letting it heat through gently.
- Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return cooked orzo to the pot and stir to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Variation
- Add sautéed mushrooms – For an earthy, umami-rich twist, stir in some golden brown mushrooms. Sauté them separately in butter until they’re deeply caramelized, then fold them into the orzo before serving.
- Toss in baby spinach – A handful of fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully in the hot orzo, adding a pop of color and a dose of greens. Stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little kick. It balances the richness of the creamy Parmesan sauce and adds some exciting heat.
Cooking Notes
- Stir the sauce continuously when adding cheese – This ensures a silky-smooth texture and prevents the cheese from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate it fresh for the best flavor and consistency.
- Watch your heat – Keep the heat on low after adding cream and cheese. High heat can cause the sauce to break or become grainy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or salmon – The creaminess of the orzo pairs beautifully with simple roasted proteins, turning it into a hearty, well-rounded dinner.
- Top with a poached or fried egg – For a cozy, satisfying vegetarian meal, add a runny egg on top. The yolk blends with the sauce and makes it even richer.
- Pair with a crisp green salad – A light, tangy salad (think lemon vinaigrette or balsamic) balances the richness of the orzo and adds a refreshing contrast to your plate.
Tips
- Toast the orzo before boiling for extra flavor – Toasting it in a bit of butter or olive oil until golden before cooking gives the pasta a nutty aroma and enhances the overall taste.
- Thin the sauce if it gets too thick – As the orzo sits, it will absorb more liquid and thicken. Just stir in a splash of warm broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Double the batch and refrigerate leftovers – This orzo reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently with a bit of extra cream or broth to revive the creamy texture.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 13g
- Sodium: 530mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo has a unique texture that works wonderfully in this creamy sauce, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even pearl couscous. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust the liquid as needed. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this orzo can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back that luscious, creamy texture. -
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can lighten it up by using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich but still delicious and satisfying. You could also reduce the amount of butter or use a light margarine alternative. -
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free orzo (available in many health food sections or online). Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta often cooks differently.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is one of those magical dishes that feels fancy yet comes together with simple ingredients in under 30 minutes. It’s cozy, versatile, and oh-so-satisfying whether you serve it as a main course or an elegant side. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite. ✨
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is pure comfort in a bowl rich, silky, and loaded with flavor. Tender orzo pasta is coated in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce that’s ready in just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect side dish or meatless main when you’re craving something decadent and cozy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, letting it heat through gently.
- Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return cooked orzo to the pot and stir to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Swap in chicken broth for a richer flavor if desired.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- This dish thickens as it sits add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: creamy orzo, garlic parmesan pasta, quick pasta recipe, one pot orzo, vegetarian comfort food