Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo because it's the ultimate comfort food that never fails to impress. The creamy texture combined with the punchy garlic and savory Parmesan creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether as a side or a main course, this orzo is delightful. Plus, it comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests without the fuss.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:10:18.656Z

Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo in my kitchen brings me so much joy. The first time I tried it, I was amazed at how straightforward yet flavorful it was. The combination of orzo cooked in a rich, garlic-infused broth creates a flavor base that's simply irresistible. I always make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for that extra creaminess.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the garlic gently until fragrant before adding the orzo; this really enhances the dish's depth. I also enjoy adding a handful of fresh spinach or herbs for an extra pop of color and nutrition. It's a dish that never disappoints!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops each orzo grain
Rich garlic flavor with a hint of nuttiness from Parmesan
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the orzo pasta. Its small, rice-like shape allows it to absorb flavors beautifully, creating a delicious harmony with the creamy sauce. When selecting orzo, look for high-quality durum wheat options for the best texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using quinoa or a gluten-free pasta that mimics orzo's shape and cook time, ensuring that the final dish remains creamy and flavorful.

Garlic serves as the backbone of this recipe, delivering a punch of flavor that is essential to the final profile. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality garlic cloves to maximize their aromatic properties. Be cautious not to overcook the garlic when sautéing; it should become fragrant without turning brown, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish. If you prefer milder garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic for a sweeter, less intense result.

Achieving the Perfect Creaminess

The key to a luxuriously creamy sauce lies in the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. When adding the cream, do so off the heat to prevent it from separating. Make sure to stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a glossy sauce that coats each grain of orzo. If you desire a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based cream while still maintaining a satisfying creaminess.

Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The Parmesan adds a natural saltiness, so be mindful when adding additional salt. If you want to elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg, which can brighten the dish and create a delightful contrast to the richness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and stir for a minute, coating it in the oil and garlic.

Add Broth

Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the orzo for about 10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Make it Creamy

Once the orzo is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and top with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo warm!

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or grilled chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the dish when cooking the garlic. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option if you prefer.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made ahead of time for convenience. To prepare, follow the initial cooking steps and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of additional broth or cream to restore its creamy texture before serving.

If you decide to freeze the orzo, note that the cream may change in texture once thawed. To freeze, portion the cooled orzo into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned, adding a little liquid to regain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this creamy orzo shines as a standalone dish, it can easily be transformed into a more filling meal by adding protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables make excellent additions, creating a balanced and hearty dish. For a vegetarian option, throw in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach just before serving for additional flavor and nutrition without sacrificing the original spirit of the recipe.

For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of lemon zest or crushed red pepper flakes to add brightness and a hint of heat. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or a sharp cheddar, to introduce new flavors while keeping the base recipe intact. Each variation can redirect this dish to suit your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while orzo is recommended, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or small shells.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

It’s best to serve it fresh, but if you need to make it in advance, store the orzo and sauce separately and combine when ready to reheat.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth, this recipe is completely vegetarian.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra broth or cream.