Creamy, garlicky, and packed with rich Parmesan flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a quick, elegant side dish that pairs perfectly with steak, chicken, or seafood.

Garlic Parmesan Orzo

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If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful side dish that feels both cozy and elevated, this Garlic Parmesan Orzo is about to become your new go-to. With its creamy texture, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic, it delivers the comforting vibe of risotto but with a fraction of the time and effort. It’s versatile enough to pair with everything from a sizzling steak to a flaky filet of fish or roasted vegetables. A touch of cream (or broth) gives it that luscious finish, and a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh herbs brightens every bite. Want to take it up a notch? Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or olives for an Italian-inspired twist. Whether you’re serving it as a side or sneaking a bowl for lunch, this dish proves that orzo deserves the spotlight.

Author: Kari Jean - Joyista Life
Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 10
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 cups cooked orzo 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)

3 cloves garlic, minced (2 cloves for a lighter verison)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup heavy cream (or chicken broth for a lighter version)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon (optional for a fresh zing)

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Instructions

Cook the Orzo:
In a large pot of salted water, cook orzo according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water.
Sauté Garlic:
While the orzo cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Orzo and Garlic:
Add the drained orzo to the skillet with garlic. Toss to combine and coat the orzo with the garlic butter.
Add Cream and Parmesan:
Pour in the heavy cream (or chicken broth) and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the cream to thicken slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season:
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the orzo is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the mixture to your desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest (if using) for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately alongside your steak.

Notes

Tips:

For extra richness: Add a spoonful of sour cream or mascarpone cheese.
For a bit of crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs.
For a fresh twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Italian-style variations:
- Add sundried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
- Stir in fresh basil and mozzarella pearls for a true Italian touch.
- Incorporate roasted red peppers, olives, or artichoke hearts for added Mediterranean flair.
- Top with crumbled feta or Parmesan shards for extra flavor.

Main Course Pairings:

Steak
The creamy, savory orzo pairs wonderfully with a juicy steak—whether it’s grilled, pan-seared, or cooked in the oven. A ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon would be great choices.
Grilled Chicken
A grilled lemon herb chicken or grilled chicken breasts with simple seasoning (garlic, lemon, olive oil) will complement the orzo’s richness without overpowering it.
Roast Pork
Roast pork tenderloin with a rosemary and garlic rub would enhance the earthy flavors of the orzo.
Salmon or White Fish
A light grilled salmon or pan-seared white fish (like cod or tilapia) would offer a balance to the richness of the orzo while still complementing its texture.

🥗 Side Dish Pairings:

Roasted Vegetables
Roasted asparagus, brussels sprouts, or caramelized carrots with garlic would balance the richness of the orzo with their crispy, slightly bitter flavors.
Garden Salad
A simple mixed green salad with arugula, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy orzo.
Grilled Veggies
Grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers seasoned with Italian herbs would add a nice smoky flavor and vibrant color alongside the dish.
Garlic Bread or Crostini
Crispy, buttery garlic bread or a side of crispy crostini would complement the garlic flavor of the orzo and make the meal even more satisfying.

🍷 Wine Pairings:

White Wine:
- Chardonnay (full-bodied with a buttery finish)
- Pinot Grigio (light and crisp to balance the richness)
- Sauvignon Blanc (for a bright, citrusy contrast)
Red Wine:
- Pinot Noir (light, fruity, and smooth)
- Chianti (classic Italian red to complement the garlic and Parmesan)
- Zinfandel (adds a bold touch, especially if paired with steak)

These pairings create a harmonious dining experience that enhances the flavor of the Garlic Parmesan Orzo while offering a well-rounded meal!

✨ Love easy, flavorful sides like this? Don’t forget to save this Garlic Parmesan Orzo recipe for your next dinner night! Share it with a friend who loves pasta and tag me if you make it—I’d love to see your plate! 💙

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Fat: 14
Carbohydrates: 38
Protein: 11