Description

Parmesan orzo is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that comes together quickly, making it a perfect side dish or main course. This dish features orzo pasta, a small, rice-shaped pasta, cooked in a savory broth and finished with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a rich, risotto-like texture without the lengthy cooking time of traditional risotto.

With its versatile and customizable nature, Parmesan orzo pairs well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon, as well as vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant side dish for a holiday meal, Parmesan orzo is a go-to recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup orzo
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted.
Add the chicken broth to the pan and cover.
Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
Stir in the Parmesan, basil, and salt and pepper.
Continue stirring until the Parmesan has melted.
Serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged grated cheese contains anti-caking agents, which prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture and flavor, always grate Parmesan fresh before using.

Adjust liquid for desired consistency: If you like a thicker, risotto-like texture, let the orzo absorb more broth. For a saucier consistency, add an extra splash of broth, milk, or cream before serving.

Stir frequently: Orzo is small and tends to stick to the pan if not stirred often. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.

Enhance with flavors: Brighten the dish with lemon zest or juice, add red pepper flakes for spice, or mix in herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil for a fresh finish.

Make it a complete meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or roasted vegetables to transform this side dish into a satisfying entrée.

Reheat with care: Parmesan orzo thickens as it cools, so when reheating, add a little broth or milk to bring back its creamy texture.