why make this recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a comforting dish that is both rich and satisfying. It’s perfect for weeknight meals or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the creaminess of heavy cream and the savory taste of garlic and Parmesan, making it a favorite for many. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different tastes, allowing you to add in your favorite veggies or fresh herbs for an extra touch.
how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Ingredients:
- 2 cups orzo pasta (traditional or whole-wheat)
- 3 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: lemon zest, spinach, or peas for freshness
Directions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the orzo and gently toast it for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a light simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo becomes tender.
- Lower the heat, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if desired. Add in spinach or peas for a fresh touch.
- Spoon the creamy garlic parmesan orzo into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for presentation.
how to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. You can also add a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal. If you want to impress your guests, top the dish with some fresh parsley or basil to enhance the presentation.
how to store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
To store leftovers, allow the orzo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creaminess.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks; it can burn quickly and become bitter.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- For extra flavor, try using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
- If you want a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a dairy-free alternative.
variation
You can customize this dish by adding different ingredients. For example, you might include sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled chicken for added protein. You could also replace the spinach with kale or use different cheeses like mozzarella or feta to change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can substitute the orzo with other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or mini shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
A: Absolutely! You can use plant-based butter or oil, vegetable broth, and vegan cream cheese or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Also, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also serve the dish with a spicy sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta (traditional or whole-wheat)
- 3 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: lemon zest, spinach, or peas for freshness
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the orzo and gently toast it for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a light simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo becomes tender.
Finishing
- Lower the heat, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the orzo.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if desired. Add in spinach or peas for a fresh touch.
- Spoon the creamy garlic parmesan orzo into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for presentation.