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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

creamy garlic parmesan orzo - featured image

A quick and easy creamy garlic Parmesan orzo recipe that is comforting, rich, and perfect as a side dish or main course. This dish features tender orzo cooked in garlic-infused broth and finished with heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 175g) orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 ½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ¾ cup (75g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to brown or burn it.
  2. Stir in 1 cup (175g) of dry orzo pasta. Toast lightly in the garlic butter for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and nutty smelling.
  3. Slowly add 2 ½ cups (600 ml) of chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is tender and most broth is absorbed.
  4. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream and ¾ cup (75g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Add more broth or cream if too thick.
  5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve hot.

Notes

Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent orzo from sticking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Temper cream by warming slightly before adding to avoid sauce seizing. Add extra broth or cream if orzo absorbs liquid too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic Parmesan orzo, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, comfort food, Parmesan orzo, garlic pasta