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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

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★★★★

4 from 61 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a savory vegetable broth, enriched with cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a quick weeknight meal or a side dish, it combines creamy texture and bold garlic flavor, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Broth

  • 2 cups (300 g) orzo
  • 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) vegetable broth

Aromatics and Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (20 g) butter
  • 1 large shallot, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

Dairy and Seasoning

  • 1 cup (200 ml) half and half (single cream)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • A handful fresh parsley, to garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the fats: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter has melted, creating a rich base for cooking the aromatics.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped shallot and garlic to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallot becomes translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without browning.
  3. Add spice and orzo: Sprinkle in the red chili flakes if using, then add the orzo pasta to the pan. Stir well to coat the orzo evenly with the butter and oil mixture, ensuring every grain is flavored.
  4. Incorporate broth and cook: Pour the vegetable broth into the pan, stirring to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce to low heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer the orzo: Cook the orzo for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, creating a creamy texture.
  6. Add cream: Stir in the half and half (single cream), heating the mixture gently over low heat. Be careful not to boil the cream to prevent curdling; heat until just hot throughout.
  7. Finish with Parmesan and seasoning: Mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference, stirring to blend all flavors.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili flakes according to taste.
  • Using freshly grated Parmesan ensures better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the orzo simmer slightly longer to absorb more broth.
  • This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use a coconut cream or cashew cream instead of half and half, and omit or replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo, orzo recipe, easy Italian pasta, quick creamy pasta, one-pan pasta dish

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-orzo-recipe/