Looking for a quick, easy, and ultra-creamy side dish or light meal? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is the perfect one-pan dish—rich, cheesy, and packed with garlicky goodness.
Tender orzo pasta simmered in a creamy garlic sauce is ready in just 25 minutes and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-Pan Recipe – Less mess, more flavor!
✅ Ready in 25 Minutes – Perfect for busy nights.
✅ Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – A comfort food favorite.
✅ Customizable – Add protein or extra veggies.
✅ Kid-Friendly – A hit with the whole family!
Recommended Kitchen Tools
Want to make this recipe even easier? Check out these must-have kitchen tools (affiliate links included!):
✅ Nonstick Pan – Perfect for creamy sauces.
✅ Garlic Press – Quickly minces fresh garlic.
✅ Parmesan Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts best.
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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Base Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, adds a hint of smokiness)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried basil & oregano)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best texture)
- ½ cup milk (if needed, to adjust consistency)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (balances the richness)
Optional Additions:
- Spinach or Kale – Stir in for extra greens.
- Mushrooms or Asparagus – Sauté for extra flavor.
- Chicken, Shrimp, or Sausage – Add protein for a full meal.
- Crushed Red Pepper – For a spicy kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large, deep skillet or saucepan.
- Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
- Add orzo pasta to the pan and stir, toasting for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- This adds a nutty depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Orzo
- Pour in chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir well, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Make it Creamy & Cheesy
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Adjust consistency by adding milk if needed.
- Stir in lemon juice to balance the richness.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Recipe Tips & Variations
✔️ Make It Spicier – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
✔️ Swap the Pasta – Try Israeli couscous or short pasta instead.
✔️ Use a Different Cheese – Try Gruyère, white cheddar, or pecorino romano.
✔️ Make It Healthier – Use whole wheat orzo and light cream.
✔️ Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free orzo or quinoa.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
🍗 Grilled Chicken or Salmon – A great protein pairing.
🥦 Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini.
🥖 Garlic Bread – Because extra garlic is always welcome!
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
How to Store:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as dairy-based sauces can separate.
How to Reheat:
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Just reheat with a splash of milk or broth before serving.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes! It will be slightly less creamy but still delicious.
3. How do I keep the orzo from getting mushy?
Cook until al dente and stir gently to avoid overmixing.
4. What’s the best way to add protein to this dish?
Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is the perfect quick, easy, and comforting side or main meal. Whether you serve it alongside grilled proteins or enjoy it on its own, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite!
Try this recipe today, and let me know how it turns out in the comments!
Also Check: Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta (One-Pot Recipe)