Creamy Orzo with Leeks and Parmesan
Indulge in the cozy comfort of Creamy Orzo with Leeks and Parmesan, a rich and velvety dish that’s perfect as either a main course or a side. This one-pan recipe combines tender orzo pasta with the delicate sweetness of sautéed leeks, infused with garlic for an aromatic base. Slowly simmered in broth and finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish achieves an irresistible creamy texture that’s both decadent and satisfying. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, it’s an easy yet elegant option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, it pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or grilled meats. Cooking enthusiasts and pasta lovers alike will relish this quick and flavorful recipe that brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your home.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large leeks (white and light green parts only, thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
Add the sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until softened and lightly golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil and butter mixture.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more. This will take about 10-12 minutes.
Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm as a comforting main dish or a side to complement roasted meats or vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
495 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.7 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.1 g | 71% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 1381 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.9 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| Protein | 15.4 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 219 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 288 mg | 6% | |
*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.
