Creamy Italian Orzo
Indulge in the velvety comfort of Creamy Italian Orzo, a one-pot wonder that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. Featuring golden-toasted orzo simmered in a savory broth and finished with a luscious blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish is the epitome of creamy perfection. Infused with fragrant garlic and a hint of optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, it's topped with fresh parsley for a burst of brightness. Ideal as a side dish or a satisfying meatless main, this recipe is as versatile as it is irresistible. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, Creamy Italian Orzo is sure to become your new favorite comfort food.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 cups Orzo pasta
- 4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.5 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 cups Fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly toasted.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook the orzo for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Serve immediately as a side dish or main course. Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2220 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 109.9 g | 141% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.7 g | 284% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 262 mg | 87% | |
| Sodium | 6060 mg | 263% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 237.1 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.7 g | 67% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.3 g | ||
| Protein | 78.4 g | 157% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1138 mg | 88% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 772 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
