Description

This creamy garlic Parmesan orzo is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender orzo pasta is cooked al dente and then enveloped in a rich sauce made from sautéed garlic, melted butter, creamy heavy cream, and sharp Parmesan cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish delivers a luscious, cheesy experience with a hint of garlic that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 cup orzo pasta

Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain the orzo well and set it aside for later.
Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the mixture to warm through without boiling.
Melt Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the warm liquid, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine Orzo and Sauce: Stir the cooked orzo into the creamy sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve: Spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan orzo onto plates or bowls. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley for a bright and fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less thick.
Add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to increase nutrition and flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor results.
Adjust garlic amount based on your preference for pungency.
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.