creamy corn orzo recipe

The Best creamy corn orzo recipe

I’ve been making this creamy corn orzo recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish has its roots in Italian cuisine, where orzo is a staple ingredient.

It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The key to this recipe is the creamy sauce, which is made with butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.

It’s rich and indulgent, but still relatively light and healthy compared to other pasta dishes. My kids love helping me make the orzo, and they always get excited when they see the creamy sauce being stirred into the cooked pasta.

I like serving this recipe with some crusty bread on the side, which helps to soak up all the extra sauce. It’s a great way to stretch the meal out and make it feel more substantial.

I’ve also found that this recipe works well for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Creamy Corn Orzo

4.6 from 1858 votes

This creamy corn orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It combines tender orzo pasta, sweet corn, and a rich cream sauce for a satisfying dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

12 oz orzo pasta
2 cups corn kernels (frozen and thawed, or fresh)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6Add corn and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the corn is heated through and slightly browned.
7In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
8Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
9Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
10Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
11Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Pour the sauce over the corn and onion mixture, stirring to combine.
13Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the corn and sauce, stirring well to ensure the orzo is evenly coated.
14Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the orzo is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
15If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
16Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
17Serve the creamy corn orzo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Saucepan
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Corn Orzo Works

This creamy corn orzo recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It is a great way to use fresh corn and enjoy a comforting meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a weeknight dinner.

It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great meal prep option. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra liquid if needed to restore the creamy texture. I love serving it with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a satisfying and comforting meal.

It is a dish that I will always make, and I know my family will always love it. It is a recipe that I recommend to everyone, and I know it will become a favorite in your home. It is always a good idea for any occasion, and it is a dish that will always be a hit with your family and friends.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Corn Orzo

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of fresh corn. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. If you are using frozen corn, you can add it to the pan earlier in the cooking process so that it has time to thaw and cook through. You may also need to add a little more liquid to the dish to account for the extra moisture in the frozen corn.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables to the dish to make it more hearty and filling. For a vegan version, you can use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later. In fact, the flavors often meld together and become more pronounced after sitting in the refrigerator for a day. To reheat, simply place the creamy corn orzo in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave if you prefer.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While orzo is traditional in this dish, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, stelline, or even couscous. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you use, so be sure to adjust accordingly. You may also need to add more or less liquid to the dish to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I freeze creamy corn orzo?

Yes, you can freeze creamy corn orzo, but it is important to note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may need to add a little extra liquid to the dish to restore the creamy texture.

What can I serve with creamy corn orzo?

This dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a lighter option, you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fruit salad. It can also be served as a vegetarian main dish with the addition of a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad. It is a great dish to serve at a family gathering or a potluck.

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