Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a decadent dish featuring tender orzo pasta coated in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect as a comforting side dish or a light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to heat through.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked orzo to the pot and stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
- Make it vegetarian-friendly by ensuring the Parmesan cheese is rennet-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stove-Top
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Garlic Parmesan Orzo, Easy Pasta Recipe