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GARLIC PARMESAN ORZO PASTA centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Easy Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe You Must Try

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta is a quick and delicious side dish featuring tender orzo enveloped in a buttery garlic sauce and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfectly suited to accompany a variety of main courses, it brings a savory and cheesy flavor that’s simple yet irresistible.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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)

Method
 

  1. Bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth with 1 teaspoon salt to a boil in a large pot.
  2. Add the orzo to the boiling liquid and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Drain the orzo, reserving half a cup of the cooking water, then set aside.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add the butter to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined with the garlic and oil.
  6. Toss the cooked orzo into the skillet with the garlic butter, mixing well to coat evenly.
  7. If the pasta looks dry, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until creamy.
  8. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and form a smooth sauce.
  9. Season the pasta with salt and pepper to your preference.
  10. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
  11. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta warm as a flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently with a splash of water to restore creaminess.