Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a creamy, comforting side dish that combines tender orzo pasta with bold garlic flavor and rich, nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s quick to make, versatile, and pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables. With a risotto-like texture but much less effort, this dish is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orzo pastabuttergarlic (minced)chicken broth or vegetable brothParmesan cheese (freshly grated)heavy cream or milkparsley (chopped, optional)saltblack pepper

directions

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in the orzo and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.

Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until creamy and well combined.

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add cooked spinach or peas for a veggie boost.

Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a complete meal.

Use half Parmesan and half Pecorino Romano for extra depth.

Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter version.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry out the orzo.

FAQs

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, you can use milk or even a bit of the pasta cooking water for a lighter version.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, if you use vegetable broth and vegetarian Parmesan.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to maintain the texture.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers the best flavor.

Can I use another type of pasta?

This recipe is tailored for orzo, but small pasta like couscous or ditalini can work in a pinch.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Orzo?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change, but it can be done in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and simple side that elevates any meal with minimal effort. Its rich texture and savory depth make it an instant crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether served beside meat or as a stand-alone dish, it delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

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