Parmesan Orzo

Why Make This Recipe

Parmesan Orzo is a simple and delicious dish that brings comfort to any meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or a delightful side for family gatherings. The creamy texture from the Parmesan cheese and the nutty flavor of toasted orzo create a perfect balance. Plus, this dish is packed with flavor without needing a lot of ingredients, making it budget-friendly too.

How to Make Parmesan Orzo

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pan and cover.
4. Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
5. Stir in the Parmesan, basil, and salt and pepper.
6. Continue stirring until the Parmesan has melted.
7. Serve hot.

How to Serve Parmesan Orzo

Parmesan Orzo can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For added flair, sprinkle some extra chopped basil on top before serving. This dish also makes a great base for adding protein like shrimp or chicken if you are looking to make it a heartier meal.

How to Store Parmesan Orzo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3 days. When you are ready to reheat, you can microwave it or heat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Parmesan Orzo

• Make sure to stir the orzo frequently while toasting to prevent burning.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• You can add more herbs like parsley or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• If you want a creamier texture, you can stir in a little heavy cream or milk before serving.

Variation

You can customize this Parmesan Orzo by adding vegetables such as spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. Simply sauté the vegetables with the orzo before adding the broth. This adds color and nutrition to the dish.

FAQs

Can I use broth other than chicken?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. Look for gluten-free orzo made from rice or another grain if needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it. Just add a little broth or water when warming it up to keep it creamy.

Parmesan Orzo

Print Recipe

A simple and delicious Parmesan Orzo dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Budget-friendly and quick to prepare, it’s perfect as a side or main dish.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the orzo and cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the chicken broth to the pan and cover.
4. Cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
5. Stir in the Parmesan, basil, and salt and pepper.
6. Continue stirring until the Parmesan has melted.
7. Serve hot.

Notes

For added flair, sprinkle extra chopped basil on top before serving. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or peas.

• Author: jessica-baker
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Parmesan orzo, quick recipe, vegetarian dish, comfort food