A thick and creamy One-Pan Orzo Parmesan comfort bowl, structured like a recipe card first so you don’t lose readers.
- prep: 5 min
- cook: 20 min
- total: 25 min
- servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups orzo
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- ½ cup heavy cream (or light cream)
- ¼ tsp oregano
- salt + black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: parsley
Instructions:
- Melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add orzo, stir for 1 minute.
- Add broth and oregano, simmer until thick.
- Add cream + Parmesan, stir until glossy.
- Serve warm with pepper dust.
🌿 This recipe is a keep sake
Orzo Parmesan cooks fast, builds creamy umami quickly, and is visually appealing when butter and Parmesan combine into a glossy orange-tinged sauce. It’s hearty but minimal, and works as both side or standalone pasta dinner.
🔄 Variations
- Crispy onions: finish with ½ cup fried onions.
- Protein boost: add 1 cup diced rotisserie chicken.
- No-cream swap: double butter + Parmesan, simmer longer.
- Lighter version: swap heavy cream for light cream.
❄ Storage & Reheating
Store 3 days refrigerated. Freeze 1 month. Loosen sauce with broth when warming.
💡 Pro Tips
- Toast orzo in butter before adding liquids.
- Stir cheese into warm sauce gradually.
❓FAQs
Q: Can I make this with rice instead?
A: Yes — simmer until coating-thick, finish with Parmesan.
Q: Will milk ruin the texture?
A: No — long simmer thickens it naturally.
Q: Can I add herbs frozen?
A: Better results come from warming herbs in butter first.
Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.