Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta

A delicious and simple dish featuring creamy Parmesan and fragrant garlic, perfect for weeknights or as a side.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for the water or broth)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little water if needed.
  2. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add the drained orzo to the pan and toss it well with the garlic and butter mixture.
  4. Stir in 1 ½ cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the pasta is creamy. If needed, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Stir the orzo while cooking to prevent sticking. Feel free to add vegetables for added nutrition.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: orzo, pasta, garlic, Parmesan, quick meal, vegetarian, creamy