Parmesan Orzo

Creamy Parmesan Orzo Recipe – indulge in the delicious flavors of this creamy pasta! Orzo pasta, prosciutto, chicken broth, garlic, onion powder, and parmesan cheese. Whether served as a comforting main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite protein and roasted vegetables for a complete and well-rounded meal.

scooping creamy orzo with prosciutto and basil from skillet with text overlay

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Creamy Parmesan Orzo Pasta. Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious culinary experience! Tender orzo pasta cooked to perfection and tossed in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce, and loaded with prosciutto. Each bite is full of rich flavors that will leave you wanting more. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sauce’s creaminess. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or hosting a special gathering, this cheesy pasta is guaranteed to impress.

What is orzo?

Orzo is s a thin, oval, rice shaped type of pasta. You can find it in the pasta aisle at grocery stores.

skillet of creamy parmesan orzo

How to Make Parmesan Orzo

This orzo pasta recipe is super easy to make with only a few simple ingredients. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add orzo pasta and chopped prosciutto to the pan. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes, until the prosciutto is getting crispy. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant. Add chicken broth and onion powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce to medium heat and simmer until the pasta is tender and all of the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy.

Helpful Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

  • You can use freshly grated parmesan cheese or the cheese in the green can. Either is just fine.
  • Add your favorite protein or veggies to the pasta.
    • chicken
    • pork tenderloin
    • steak
    • shrimp
    • spinach
    • asparagus
    • green peas
    • broccoli
    • cherry tomatoes
    • onion
    • bell peppers
    • red pepper flakes
  • You can substitute bacon if you don’t have prosciutto.
  • Add a splash of heavy cream for creamier pasta.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
scooping creamy orzo with prosciutto and basil from skillet

What to Serve with Parmesan Orzo Pasta

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, steak, juicy shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless! 

To balance out the rich and creamy flavors of the pasta, consider serving it with a vibrant side salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The crispness and tanginess of the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo. Another great option is to pair it with roasted asparagus and tomatoes, adding a burst of green goodness to your plate. And if you’re looking for an extra indulgence, a side of garlic bread will be a fantastic companion to mop up every last drop of that creamy Parmesan sauce. With these pairing ideas, you’ll create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table wanting more. 

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scooping creamy orzo with prosciutto and basil from skillet with text overlay

Parmesan Orzo

Yield: 4 people
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Orzo Recipe – indulge in the delicious flavors of this creamy pasta! Orzo pasta, prosciutto, chicken broth, garlic, onion powder, and parmesan cheese. Whether served as a comforting main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite protein and roasted vegetables for a complete and well-rounded meal.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add orzo pasta and chopped prosciutto to the pan. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes, until the prosciutto is getting crispy.
  • Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
  • Add chicken broth and onion powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce to medium heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the pasta is tender and all of the liquid has been absorbed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Garnish with fresh basil.

Notes:

  • You can use freshly grated parmesan cheese or the cheese in the green can. Either is just fine.
  • You can substitute bacon if you don’t have prosciutto.
  • Add a splash of heavy cream for creamier pasta.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Steph

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skillet of creamy orzo with prosciutto and basil with text overlay

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