Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

4.62 from 222 votes

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo can be on your table in 15 minutes! While it's perfect as a side dish, I prefer this as a meal on its own because it's cheesy, creamy and really hits the spot.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: 30 minute meals, creamy garlic parmesan orzo, creamy parmesan orzo, orzo

Servings:

Calories: 518kcal

Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

12" All-Clad Stainless Skillet

Ingredients

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

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a large skillet add the olive oil, butter and cook for about 30 seconds until the butter melts. Stir in the onion and garlic and let it cook for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes aromatic.
Add the orzo to the skillet and let it cook for about 2 minutes just in the oil so that it starts to toast lightly, this will give it a nutty flavor.
Season with salt and pepper then stir in the chicken broth and half and half. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to a medium-low, cover with a lid and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Orzo – A rice-shaped pasta that cooks fast and absorbs flavor. Look for it near other specialty pastas or in the international aisle.
Parmesan – Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and melt. Pre-shredded or bagged tends to be grainy.
Garlic – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you're in a pinch, ½ teaspoon garlic powder will do.
Half-and-half – Adds creaminess without being too heavy. Sub with milk for lighter, or use cream for extra rich.
Broth – Chicken broth gives depth. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Leftovers – Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. Not freezer-friendly.

Nutrition