Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
A comforting dish that combines the nuttiness of orzo pasta with the creaminess of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests.
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.
Notes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. For storage, allow the orzo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g
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