Name: Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth; 1½ cups dry orzo pasta (about 278 grams); 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup cream (any kind: heavy cream for richer flavor, light cream for a thinner texture); ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 14 reviews

I absolutely love sharing this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe because it’s one of those comforting dishes that feels elegant but comes together so quickly. The tender, perfectly cooked orzo mingled with garlic, creamy Parmesan, and fresh parsley creates a rich, flavorful experience that always makes me smile. Every time I make this, it feels like a little celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the best way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

What really gets me excited about this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe is the way the flavors come together so wonderfully. The garlic is fragrant but not overpowering, and the Parmesan adds that sharp, salty punch that makes every bite irresistible. The cream adds a silky texture that ties everything into a dreamy, comforting dish. It’s the kind of side or main I want to eat on repeat!

Besides the deliciousness, I love how incredibly easy this recipe is. It takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish, with minimal fuss and common ingredients you probably already have on hand. I often make it for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a fancy touch to holidays. It stands out because it’s both quick and impressive, making it a reliable go-to when I want to wow guests or treat myself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal pan is filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is small, light yellow orzo pasta spread evenly in a circle, the middle layer is white creamy sauce covering about half of the orzo, and on top of the sauce there are two small piles, one of finely chopped green herbs slightly on the right side and another of pale grated cheese, both sitting on the pasta. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The best part about this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one contributes perfectly to the final dish’s rich flavor and delightful texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Low sodium chicken broth: This is the cooking liquid that infuses the orzo with savory depth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Dry orzo pasta: A tiny pasta shaped like rice that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious broth and cream.
Garlic (finely minced): Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic kick that wakes up the whole dish.
Salt: Just enough to enhance the flavors without being too salty, especially since the broth is low sodium.
Black pepper: Adds a little background warmth and mild heat.
Cream: Any kind works, but heavy cream will give you a richer, more luscious texture.
Parmesan cheese (shredded): For that cheesy, nutty finish that makes the orzo downright addictive.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness to lift the richness.

Directions

Step 1: Start by bringing your low sodium chicken broth to a simmer in a large saucepan over high heat. This creates the perfect cooking base for the orzo, infusing it with lovely flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Add the orzo, finely minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the simmering broth. Give it a quick stir so everything is combined and the garlic starts releasing its aroma into the broth.

Step 3: Cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently, stirring often to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until most of the broth is absorbed and the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite. If you find the liquid is gone before the pasta is fully cooked, just add a splash more broth and keep simmering—it’s a reliable way to get the perfect texture.

Step 4: Stir in the cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. The cream will turn the orzo delightfully silky, while the Parmesan melts in, creating that savory, cheesy blanket over each bite.

Step 5: Taste the orzo and adjust the seasoning if necessary—sometimes a little extra salt or pepper is just what it needs. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy it warm, creamy, and full of flavor.

Servings and Timing

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe serves about 4 people generously, making it perfect for a small family dinner or for sharing with friends. Prep time is minimal, usually around 5 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients. The cooking time takes about 15 minutes until the orzo is tender and the dish comes together with the cream and cheese. In total, you’re looking at roughly 20 minutes from start to finish, with no additional resting or cooling time necessary since it’s best enjoyed fresh and warm.

How to Serve This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe

A close-up image shows creamy orzo pasta with a smooth, slightly shiny texture, cooked to soft but firm, mixed with small bits of green herbs scattered through the off-white layers of pasta. The orzo is in one thick layer inside a large metal pot. A woman’s hand holding a wooden spoon is lifting a large scoop of the orzo, showing the creamy texture and the small pasta pieces clinging together. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving, I love pairing this orzo with simply roasted chicken or grilled vegetables—the creamy, garlicky flavors really shine alongside lighter proteins and fresh produce. For a complete meal, adding a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the rich Parmesan beautifully. Garnishing with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan just before serving adds a little flair that makes it feel extra special.

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo tastes fantastic warm, but I’ve also enjoyed it at room temperature for casual lunches or potlucks. If you want to impress on special occasions, consider plating it alongside a rich red wine like a Chianti or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish’s richness nicely.

I also like to serve individual portions in small bowls for intimate dinners or family-style on a big platter when entertaining guests. The creamy texture and subtle garlicky tang mean each serving feels indulgent yet comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to put a twist on it, swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth makes it great for vegetarians without sacrificing flavor. To make it vegan, try using a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives—I’ve found cashew cream works wonderfully here, and nutritional yeast adds that cheesy depth.

If you’re craving something with a little more punch, stirring in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes adds savory earthiness that pairs beautifully with the garlic and cheese. For increased texture, toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top give a nice crunchy contrast that I adore.

Cooking methods can vary too. Sometimes I like to finish the orzo with a quick broil for a golden crust, especially if I add breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top. Alternatively, cooking the orzo in a slow cooker with the broth and garlic can yield a deeply infused, tender result that’s great for busy days.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I recommend storing any leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. It stays delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it slightly before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can affect texture.

Freezing

While orzo can be frozen, I personally find the creamy texture doesn’t always come back the same after thawing. If you want to freeze it, transfer cooled orzo into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. It can keep well for up to 1 month. When thawing, I prefer to do so overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve as much creaminess as possible.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this Garlic Parmesan Orzo is on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to rehydrate and loosen the sauce. Warm it over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Microwaving works too, but be careful to add liquid and stir often to avoid drying out. Avoid high heat or prolonged reheating as it can cause the cream and cheese to separate.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Substituting vegetable broth is a great option if you prefer a vegetarian version or want a different flavor base. Just choose a good-quality vegetable broth to maintain depth in the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Unfortunately, traditional orzo pasta contains gluten, so this recipe as-is isn’t gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn as a substitute and use that instead for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the orzo a few hours in advance, but I recommend reheating gently and adding a bit of liquid when serving. The texture is best fresh, so keeping it warm and creamy right before eating gives the best results.

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Orzo?

I love pairing this orzo with simple grilled proteins like chicken, salmon, or shrimp. It also works wonderfully alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. The rich, garlicky flavors complement many dishes!

Can I add vegetables or proteins directly to the orzo?

Definitely! Stirring in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or cooked chicken pieces toward the end of cooking turns it into a complete one-pot meal. Just be sure to adjust seasonings accordingly.

Conclusion

I truly hope you try making this Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe soon—it’s one of those magical dishes that can brighten up any meal with minimal effort. The creamy texture, garlicky goodness, and cheesy finish always leave me feeling satisfied and a little proud of how simple ingredients can come together so beautifully. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!