parmesan garlic orzo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best parmesan garlic orzo recipe

I’m so excited to share this parmesan garlic orzo recipe with you all. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The combination of creamy orzo, pungent garlic, and nutty parmesan cheese is absolute perfection.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and my kids just love it when I serve it to them. In fact, they often request it for their birthdays, which is the highest compliment I can get as a mom and cook.

Parmesan Garlic Orzo

4.7 from 1378 votes

A creamy and flavorful side dish made with tender orzo pasta, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This quick recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3Add the orzo pasta to the saucepan and stir to coat with the butter and garlic.
4Cook for 2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and golden in color.
5Pour in the broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
6Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
8If desired, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use low-sodium broth. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Parmesan Garlic Orzo Works

This parmesan garlic orzo recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s easy to make and can be served as a side dish or as a light meal on its own.

My family loves it when I serve it with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken. The leftovers are also great for packing in lunchboxes or serving at school potlucks.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Parmesan Garlic Orzo

Q: What is orzo?

Orzo is a type of pasta that resembles rice. It’s made from wheat flour and water, and its texture is slightly firmer than regular pasta.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese instead of parmesan?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare, including cooking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the orzo and garlic mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best served fresh.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains parmesan cheese which comes from animal sources. If you’re a vegetarian, you may want to substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

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