Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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If you are searching for a cozy, comforting dish that delivers rich flavors and a smooth, velvety texture, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Bursting with the aromatic essence of garlic and the sharp, nutty taste of Parmesan, this recipe transforms simple orzo pasta into a luscious, gourmet experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether as a main or a side, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for company.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo come together effortlessly, each playing its part to create a harmonious blend of creaminess, flavor, and texture. From the rich butter and garlic that build the base, to the Parmesan that brings depth and complexity, every component is essential yet simple.

1 cup orzo pasta: The star grain in this dish, cooking up tender with a slight bite that holds the sauce wonderfully.
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Adds savory depth and ensures the orzo cooks perfectly with extra flavor.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a silky sauté base and enhances richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that irresistible aromatic punch we all love.
1 cup heavy cream: Provides luscious creaminess that coats every orzo pearl beautifully.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers savory, nutty notes that elevate the sauce to absolute perfection.
Salt to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
Black pepper to taste: Adds a little kick and warmth to each bite.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant color and herbal brightness to finish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing your vegetable or chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. This flavorful cooking liquid infuses the orzo with more taste than plain water ever could. Add your orzo and cook it until just al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The orzo should be tender but still retain a little bite to avoid getting mushy in the next steps. Carefully reserve about half a cup of the broth before draining the rest; you’ll use this to help create the luscious sauce later. Set your drained orzo aside for the next stage.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Using the same saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling gently, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden but never burnt, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness that will overpower this delicate dish.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Next, pour in the heavy cream and the reserved broth, stirring continuously to combine everything smoothly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer so the flavors meld together, and the sauce starts thickening. This step turns simple ingredients into a luxurious base that will envelop the orzo with silkiness.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Orzo

Now it’s time for the best part: stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt right into the warm cream mixture, creating a beautifully creamy sauce packed with savory depth and that slightly cheesy tang. Once melted, fold in your cooked orzo, mixing thoroughly so every little pasta grain is coated like a delicious creamy blanket.

Step 5: Season and Finish Cooking

Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give everything another 2 to 3 minutes over low heat, letting the sauce thicken just a bit more and the flavors meld perfectly. The result is a decadent, creamy, and garlicky orzo that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Garnishes

To bring a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. It’s a simple touch that instantly elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise, balancing out all the richness.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. It also complements proteins like baked chicken breasts, seared salmon, or even a juicy steak, making your meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, consider serving the orzo in small ramekins topped with extra Parmesan and a light drizzle of olive oil. For a fun twist, stir in some sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to add color and texture. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a bright contrast that keeps each bite exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo will absorb some of the sauce, so it might thicken, but it remains deliciously creamy once reheated.

Freezing

While freezing this dish is possible, it’s best to consume it fresh or refrigerated because the cream sauce can separate when thawed. If you do freeze, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month and be aware the texture might soften slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the orzo gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce back up. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again. Microwaving works too but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking or drying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While Parmesan gives that classic salty, nutty flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different twist. Just keep in mind these cheeses vary in saltiness and melt differently.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the butter for olive oil, use a plant-based cream substitute, and choose a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The texture won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be creamy and flavorful.

Can I prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo in advance?

Definitely! You can cook the orzo and make the sauce ahead of time, then gently reheat right before serving. Just be prepared to loosen up the sauce a bit with additional broth or cream upon reheating.

How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta into the orzo before serving is a great way to boost protein. Stirring in some peas or spinach also adds nutrition and vibrant color.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements this dish beautifully by cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo recipe feels like passing down a treasure because it never fails to deliver comfort and joy in every creamy, garlicky bite. Give it a try next time you want a simple yet decadent meal that feels special without fuss. It might just become your new favorite go-to!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender orzo cooked in flavorful broth, then enveloped in a luscious sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a quick and elegant side or main that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook Orzo: Bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Drain Broth: Once the orzo is cooked, reserve about a half cup of the broth, then drain the remaining broth and set the orzo aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Combine Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and the reserved broth, stirring well to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Melt Cheese and Mix Pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is creamy. Add the cooked orzo to the saucepan and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
Season and Thicken: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve and Garnish: Serve in a dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for richer flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
Grate the Parmesan fresh for best melting and flavor.
Make sure not to overcook the orzo to maintain a nice texture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian