Crеamy gаrlіc Parmеsаn Orzo is a nice dish that mixes soft little pasta bits with a yummy garlic and cheese taste . It's easy to make , and tastes like a restaurant meal right at home . You can serve it for famіly dinners , weekday suppers or on special days .
Orzo is a pasta that looks like rice and gives you a fun twist on regular spaghetti dishes . It dont clump and cooks quick . It’s loaded with carbs that gіve you energy , plus vitamins and minerals . When you mix it with butter , garlic , cream and cheesy Parmеsаn , it turns into a rich and creamy bowl that most people love .
In this post , you will find a full guide : list of ingrediants you need , a simple step-by-step cooking plan , plus some tips to make it super creamy . You’ll also see a few swaps and extras to make the dish your own . Let’s cook up this tasty orzo !
Ingredients
To make this creamy orzo , grab these items :
- Orzo: little pasta bits that look like rice , give a cool texture .
- Garlic: fresh cloves , chopped small for better flavor .
- Parmesan cheese: sharp cheese that melts and adds nuttiness .
- Heavy cream: makes the sauce thick and velvety .
- Butter: used to cook garlic , adding a rich taste .
- Chicken or vegetable broth: it gives more flavor and moisture .
- Salt and pepper: to season and bring out the flavors .
- Parsley: fresh and chopped , for a green pop on top .
You can also try some swaps or add-ins :
- use gluten-free orzo if you dont eat gluten
- swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino for a diffrent cheese kick
- toss in spinach , mushrooms or other veggies for more color and taste
Directions
Follow these steps to make your orzo creamy and tasty :
- Prep : chop the garlic , measure cream and broth , set near stove .
- Cook the orzo : boil water in a pot , add some salt , then drop in orzo and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes till it’s al dente . Drain water and set aside .
- Make the sauce : heat butter in a pan on medium . Add garlic and sauté 1 to 2 minutes till you smell it , dont let it burn . Pour in broth and cream , stir and let it bubble gently .
- Mix together : add the cooked orzo to the pan , stir so all pieces get coated in the sauce .
- Finish it off : take pan off heat , stir in grated cheese till it melts . Taste and add salt , pepper if needed . Top with parsley and serve .
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips to get the best results :
- Watch doneness : dont overcook orzo or it gets mushy
- Stir cheese : keep stirring while adding cheese so it melts smooth
- Reheat tips : add a bit of broth or milk when warming up left overs so it stays saucy
- Pair it with : grilled chicken , steamed veggies or a simple salad
Nutritional Information
Each serving is about 400 calories . It has around 25g of fats (from butter and cheese) , 40g of carbs and 10g of protein .
Plus , garlic can help your immunity and orzo gives you quick energy . Cheese adds calcium and protein too .
Serving Suggestions
To serve , scoop the orzo into bowls and make sure theres lots of sauce .
- Presentation : sprinkle extra cheese or herbs on top
- Side dishes : a green salad or roasted veggies go great
- Wine pairing : try a white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Creative plating : add a lemon wedge or drizzle olive oil for a fancy look
Variations of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
- Add-ins : cooked chicken , shrimp or more veggies like zucchini and peppers
- Vegetarian version : use vegetable stock and plant-based cream and cheese
- Herb-infused : toss in basil , thyme or oregano for an Italian twist
- One-pan method : cook every thing in one pan , adjust liquid so orzo soaks it up
FAQs
- What is orzo? it's a pasta shaped like rice that's used in soups , salads or as a side
- Can I make this vegan? yes , use plant-based cream , cheese and veggie broth
- How long does it take? about 30 minutes from start to finish
- Can I make it ahead? you can cook orzo early , just warm sauce and mix when ready
- What if I don't have Parmesan? try Pecorino , Asiago or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option
Conclusion
Crеamy gаrlіc Parmеsаn Orzo is a cozy and rich dish that anyone can make at home . It's simple enough for every night , but special for guests . Give it a try and let us know what changes you made in the comments below .
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Grater
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Add the cooked orzo to the saucepan and mix well.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
