Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Creamy, indulgent, and utterly irresistible, this Garlic Parmesan Orzo is the perfect side dish or satisfying main course ready in just 25 minutes. Featuring tender orzo pasta toasted to perfection and simmered in savory chicken broth, this dish is elevated with a luscious blend of melted Parmesan cheese, rich heavy cream, and fragrant garlic. A touch of butter and olive oil adds depth to the flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley offers a beautiful finishing touch. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pot recipe strikes the perfect balance between gourmet and comfort food. Effortless, versatile, and packed with flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely.

Step 2

Mince the garlic cloves finely. Add them to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3

Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it well with the garlic butter mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is lightly toasted.

Step 4

Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let the orzo cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Once the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Mix until the cheese is melted and the mixture becomes creamy.

Step 6

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Remove from heat and let the orzo sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Step 8

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	875.6 grams (875.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1613

Total Fat 85.60g	110%
Saturated Fat 44.20g	221%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 202mg	67%
Sodium 3675mg	160%
Total Carbohydrate 154.80g	56%
Dietary Fiber 11.20g	40%
Total Sugars 4.70g
Protein 64.40g	129%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 983mg	76%
Iron 9mg	49%
Potassium 462mg	10%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.8%

Protein: 15.6%

Carbs: 37.6%