Description
Garlic Butter Orzo is a quick and easy creamy side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in savory chicken or vegetable broth, then combined with rich butter, minced garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This comforting and flavorful recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Orzo: Start by bringing your chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook according to the package directions until tender but still al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the orzo cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine and Simmer: Drain the orzo, reserving a little of the cooking liquid. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the garlic butter and stir to coat evenly. If the mixture feels dry, splash in some reserved broth or cooking water to loosen it and create a creamy finish.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss in chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the Garlic Butter Orzo to a serving dish and enjoy it immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.
- Don’t overcook the orzo to maintain a tender but firm bite.
- Reserve some broth to adjust creaminess without thinning the dish too much.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- Finish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to preserve vibrant color and taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Orzo, easy side dish, creamy pasta, orzo recipe, quick dinner side, buttery garlic pasta
