Parmesan Orzo
Creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor, Parmesan Orzo is the ultimate comfort food side dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. This easy recipe features tender, toasted orzo pasta simmered in a rich bath of chicken or vegetable broth, infused with the irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic. Finished with a velvety blend of grated Parmesan cheese, a splash of heavy cream, and a touch of butter, this dish delivers a perfectly luscious texture. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ideal for pairing with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even as a satisfying vegetarian main course, this one-pot recipe is a quick and versatile addition to any dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a foolproof way to elevate your meals with minimal effort!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large garlic clove
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Finely mince the garlic and add it to the butter. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the orzo becomes creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed.
Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1377 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.6 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.2 g | 181% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 172 mg | 57% | |
| Sodium | 4275 mg | 186% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 154.3 g | 56% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.0 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.6 g | ||
| Protein | 60.6 g | 121% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 954 mg | 73% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 116 mg | 2% | |
*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.
