Description
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ cup spinach, chopped (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender (about 10 minutes).
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
If using spinach, stir it in and cook for another minute until wilted.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 420 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect, creamy orzo every time.
- Toast the Orzo: In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add the 1 cup of dry orzo pasta. Toast, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes. This crucial step deepens the pasta’s flavor.
- Simmer in Broth: Carefully pour in the 2 cups of broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 10 minutes. The orzo is ready when it is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, leaving a creamy sauce.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of grated Parmesan, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and cohesive.
- Add Final Ingredients: If using, fold in the ½ cup of chopped spinach and cook for just one additional minute until wilted. Remove the pan from the heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy orzo to a serving dish and garnish with the 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile orzo makes an excellent side dish or a light main course. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or lemon-herb shrimp. It also complements roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes beautifully. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside a large, crisp garden salad.
How-to Summary
Sauté garlic in butter, toast the orzo, then simmer it in broth until tender. Reduce heat, stir in cream, Parmesan, and seasonings to create a luxuriously creamy sauce. Optionally add spinach, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, but the cooking method is specific to orzo’s small size. For similar results with other small pasta like ditalini, adjust the broth amount and cooking time as needed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, as it thickens when chilled.
Can I make this dish dairy-free? Absolutely. Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based cream alternative, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute.
Is the orzo supposed to be al dente? In this creamy preparation, the orzo should be fully tender, not al dente, as it continues to absorb the creamy sauce.
Can I add protein directly to the dish? Yes. For a one-pan meal, add cooked, shredded chicken, diced ham, or sautéed shrimp when you stir in the cream and cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Toast: Not toasting the orzo in butter misses a key opportunity to develop a rich, nutty flavor base.
- Using High Heat for the Sauce: Adding cream and cheese over high heat can cause the sauce to break or the cheese to clump. Always reduce to low heat.
- Overcooking the Spinach: If using spinach, add it last and only cook until just wilted to maintain its color and nutrients.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For the smoothest sauce, grate a block of Parmesan yourself.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality dish in under 20 minutes. Its rich, comforting flavor and luxurious texture make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Mastering the simple techniques of toasting the pasta and gently incorporating the dairy will ensure perfect results every time. Give this recipe a try—it’s poised to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.
