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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo: A Quick Comfort Food Delight

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo is a quick and satisfying dish that melds garlic and parmesan for a comforting experience.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil can substitute with canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon Butter unsalted recommended
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini
For the Flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme or use only 1/3 if using dried thyme
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian version
  • 1 cup Half and Half or whole milk
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese freshly grated melts better
For Seasoning
  • to taste Freshly Cracked Black Pepper adjust according to preference
  • to taste Salt use sparingly if broth is already salted

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter melts and bubbles, stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta. Toast the orzo for about 30-60 seconds until lightly golden.
  2. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  3. Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Carefully remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of half and half. Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Adjust with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

If lacking creaminess, gradually add more half and half. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–5 days.

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