Description
Creamy garlic parmesan orzo brings comfort and elegance to your dinner table with its silky texture and rich, savory flavors. Mediterranean-inspired ingredients blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each delightful spoonful of this irresistible pasta dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Warm a skillet over medium flame and gently melt butter until it turns golden and releases a nutty aroma.
- Introduce minced garlic to the bubbling butter, sautéing until its pungent fragrance fills the kitchen and softens slightly.
- Tumble orzo into the skillet, gently stirring to coat each grain with buttery essence and allow a light toasting to develop complex flavors.
- Stream chicken broth into the pan, creating a gentle simmer that will gradually transform the orzo into a tender, luxurious base.
- Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let the orzo absorb the liquid, periodically stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once orzo reaches a creamy, al dente consistency, introduce heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan, stirring continuously to create a silky, rich sauce.
- Sprinkle Italian herbs across the surface, allowing them to infuse the creamy mixture with aromatic depth.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper, tasting and adjusting to enhance the dish’s harmonious flavors.
- Finish by scattering chopped fresh parsley across the top, adding a bright, verdant touch to the creamy orzo.
- Serve immediately, ensuring the dish maintains its luxurious, velvety texture.
Notes
- Toast orzo briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent mushiness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum melting and richer taste compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Adjust liquid ratio carefully to achieve perfectly creamy texture without becoming too dry or soupy.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for lighter version, or use plant-based alternatives for dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg