There’s nothing better than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo—a rich, velvety pasta dish packed with garlic, Parmesan, and buttery goodness. This easy, one-pot recipe is the perfect side dish or main course for a cozy, comforting meal!
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
🍝 Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – Parmesan melts into a luscious sauce.
🧄 Loaded with Garlic Flavor – The perfect balance of rich and savory.
⏳ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
🥘 One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or spinach (for extra veggies)
- ½ cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for a protein boost)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo & Simmer
- Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
- Lower heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a main course.
Serving Suggestions
🥩 With Grilled Chicken or Steak – A perfect creamy side dish.
🍤 With Garlic Butter Shrimp – Complements the rich sauce beautifully.
🥗 With a Fresh Green Salad – Balances the richness with a crisp contrast.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
🔥 Toast the Orzo First – Adds a nutty depth of flavor.
🧄 Use Fresh Garlic – Enhances the overall richness.
🥛 For a Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half.
🧀 Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds a richer taste.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Freeze Not Recommended: The creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free orzo or swap with rice for a risotto-like dish.
Q2: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Try peas, spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
Q3: Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! White cheddar, Gruyère, or Pecorino Romano work great.
Creamy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor!
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and so easy to make. Whether as a side or a main dish, it’s guaranteed to impress!
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Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 4 Servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
🔥 Enjoy every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite of this Parmesan Orzo!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Description
There’s nothing better than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo—a rich, velvety pasta dish packed with garlic, Parmesan, and buttery goodness. This easy, one-pot recipe is the perfect side dish or main course for a cozy, comforting meal!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or spinach (for extra veggies)
- ½ cup cooked chicken or shrimp (for a protein boost)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo & Simmer
- Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
- Lower heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a main course.
Notes
Toast the Orzo First – Adds a nutty depth of flavor.
Use Fresh Garlic – Enhances the overall richness.
For a Lighter Version – Swap heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half.
Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
