Description
Creamy and comforting orzo pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with savory Parmesan cheese. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect as a side or an easy weeknight main.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until butter is melted.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Stir in the dry orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted to make the dish vegetarian.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- If reheating, add a splash of broth, milk, or water to loosen the sauce.
- Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
