Creamy Italian Orzo

Indulge in the velvety comfort of Creamy Italian Orzo, a one-pot wonder that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. Featuring golden-toasted orzo simmered in a savory broth and finished with a luscious blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish is the epitome of creamy perfection. Infused with fragrant garlic and a hint of optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, it's topped with fresh parsley for a burst of brightness. Ideal as a side dish or a satisfying meatless main, this recipe is as versatile as it is irresistible. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, Creamy Italian Orzo is sure to become your new favorite comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups Orzo pasta
• 4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 cups Heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.25 cups Fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted.

Step 2

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3

Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly toasted.

Step 4

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook the orzo for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender.

Step 5

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes creamy.

Step 6

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Step 8

Serve immediately as a side dish or main course. Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1575.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2220.4

Total Fat 109.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 56.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 262mg	0%
Sodium 6060.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 237.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.7g	0%
Total Sugars 8.3g
Protein 78.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1137.9mg	0%
Iron 15.4mg	0%
Potassium 771.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.9%

Protein: 13.9%

Carbs: 42.1%