Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo: Simple & Satisfying Dinner (Print Version)
Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta a weeknight favorite! This comforting dish is packed with flavor and comes together easily.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Dietary: Vegetarian (if using veg broth)
# Ingredients:
→ Orzo & Dairy Base
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 -
1 cup orzo pasta
04 -
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
05 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Flavor Foundation
06 -
6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
07 -
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
Salt to taste
09 -
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Fresh Herbs & Finishing Touches
10 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
→ Optional Add-ins
11 -
A handful of fresh spinach
12 -
Roasted cherry tomatoes
13 -
Sautéed mushrooms
# Instructions:
01 -
Grab a large skillet or a Dutch oven – you want something with enough surface area for the orzo to cook evenly. Add your butter and a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once that butter is melted and just starting to bubble, toss in your finely minced garlic. Stir it constantly for about a minute until it’s fragrant, but please, don't let it brown! Burnt garlic is a sad, bitter thing, and we're going for warm and inviting here. This is where the magic starts to happen, filling your kitchen with that amazing aroma.
02 -
Now, add the dry orzo pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic and butter. Stir it around for another 1-2 minutes. You're looking for a very slight golden toast on some of the grains, almost like you're making risotto. This step, honestly, adds a wonderful nutty depth to the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta, and I didn't expect it to make such a difference until I tried it. It prevents the pasta from getting too mushy later on, too, giving it a bit of texture.
03 -
Pour in your chicken broth. Give it a good stir, making sure to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. The orzo needs to absorb most of that liquid. Check it periodically; you want it tender but still with a tiny bit of bite, not mushy. This is the part where patience pays off, trust me!
04 -
Once the orzo is cooked and most of the broth is absorbed, take the pan off the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and a generous amount of your freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce looks wonderfully smooth and luscious. This is where the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta truly comes alive, transforming into that rich, dreamy dish you're craving. Don't be afraid to add a little more cheese if it feels right – I usually do!
05 -
Taste your orzo. This is important! Depending on your broth and cheese, you might need a little salt and a good crack of black pepper. I usually start with a pinch of salt and add more slowly until it tastes just right. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away! Sometimes, if it's a bit too thick, I'll add a tiny splash more broth or cream until it reaches my ideal consistency. It’s all about finding *your* perfect balance.
06 -
Transfer your warm, inviting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh finish. Honestly, it looks so pretty! You can also add an extra dusting of Parmesan if you're feeling fancy (or just really love cheese, like me!). Serve it immediately while it's still warm and gloriously creamy. This dish just screams comfort, and it's best enjoyed right away.
# Notes:
01 -
Don't rush the garlic, trust me on this; a gentle sauté makes all the difference.
02 -
Leftovers are great, but sometimes a splash of milk helps revive the creaminess when reheating.
03 -
I've swapped orzo for ditalini in a pinch, and it works, just a different texture.
04 -
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
wooden spoon
03 -
grater (for cheese)
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 25g
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Protein: 18g