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–+ servings
5 from 4 reviews

Parmesan Orzo

This Parmesan orzo features small, tender pasta that has been coated in a rich, creamy, and oh-so-tasty cheese sauce! It's a simple one-pot recipe that comes together in less than 30 minutes! Enjoy it as a side dish, paired with some bread, or as the main course itself!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dinner Recipes, Entrees, Main Course, Pasta, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 313kcal
Author: Angela Latimer

Ingredients

  • 2½ cups chicken broth
  • 1½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 teaspoon garlic (finely minced)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
  • ¼ cup basil (optional, chopped)
  • 2 tablespoon parsley (chopped, or basil)
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a medium-sized skillet, mix together the chicken broth, orzo pasta, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
    2½ cups chicken broth, 1½ cups orzo pasta, 2 teaspoon garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
    Parmesan orzo process photo 2 add broth.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the liquid has been absorbed and the pasta is cooked to your preference (stirring occasionally).
    Parmesan orzo process photo 3 bring to a simmer.
  • Remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the optional chopped basil.
    ⅓ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup basil
    Parmesan orzo process photo 5 add Parmesan and herbs.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately.
    2 tablespoon parsley

Notes

  • You can add in some veggies to add some extra flavor and nutrition! Try it with some peas, tomatoes, asparagus, grated carrots, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, and more!
  • This dish is incredibly versatile! Add your favorite protein for a well-rounded meal. I recommend chicken, bacon, or sausage!
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for some added spice!
  • To store: Keep any leftover Parmesan orzo stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. 
  • To reheat: Reheat your leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream, stirring frequently until heated. 

Nutrition

Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 946mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 592IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 1mg