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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a rich and comforting side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a flavorful garlic and onion-infused butter and olive oil base, simmered in creamy half and half and chicken broth, then finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a delightful nutty and cheesy flavor.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups dry orzo
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and butter: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and butter. Cook for about 30 seconds until the butter melts and combines with the oil.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes aromatic but not browned.
  3. Toast the orzo: Add the dry orzo to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes in the oil and butter mixture, stirring occasionally to lightly toast the pasta and develop a nutty flavor.
  4. Season and add liquids: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the low sodium chicken broth and half and half.
  5. Simmer the orzo: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb the liquids and become tender.
  6. Finish with cheese and parsley: Remove the lid, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped fresh parsley until the cheese melts and the dish becomes creamy.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer the creamy garlic Parmesan orzo to serving dishes and enjoy while warm.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be tender but still hold its shape.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian (omit unsalted butter if also vegan).
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk or broth.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-orzo-recipe/