Go Back
Dreamy Creamy Parmesan Garlic Orzo - creamy orzo - Creamy orzo: master this quick and delightful garlic parmesan side dish. Perfect with a hint of lemon, it's a

Dreamy Creamy Parmesan Garlic Orzo

Creamy orzo: master this quick and delightful garlic parmesan side dish. Perfect with a hint of lemon, it's an easy weeknight favorite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • pinch salt
  • 1 cup (6.5oz) gluten-free brown rice orzo
  • 2 tablespoons half-and-half OR heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 fresh lemon (optional)

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic then cook while stirring constantly until it becomes light golden brown
  2. Once simmering, add the orzo then stir to combine. Place a lid on top of the pot, turn the heat down to low, then gently simmer until the orzo is tender, 15-17 minutes, stirring often and adding a splash more chicken broth near the end if needed. Be sure to keep the heat on low to maintain a very gentle simmer.
  3. Turn the heat off then add the parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Add the half-and-half then stir to combine. Squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice, if using, then stir to combine. Taste then add more salt if needed. Scoop onto plates then serve

Notes

- Garlic Gold: When sautéing garlic, keep the heat on medium-low and stir constantly. It can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds, which will make your creamy orzo taste bitter. Listen for a gentle sizzle, not a loud crackle.
- Orzo Doneness: Simmer the orzo gently; don't boil it vigorously. Stir often to prevent sticking. If the orzo absorbs all the liquid before becoming tender, add a splash more chicken broth. The goal is al dente, not mushy.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover creamy orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to a saucepan and gently warm over low heat, stirring until creamy again.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.