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Easy One Pot Creamy Orzo Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan orzo pasta is a rich and comforting one pot dinner recipe made with tender orzo pasta, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. It is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or simple family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 c orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 c chicken broth
  • 1 c heavy cream
  • 1 c parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Place a large skillet or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly softened.
  2. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir well so the pasta becomes coated in the butter mixture. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring often until some pieces begin turning lightly golden.
  3. Slowly pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the orzo simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. Stir every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
  5. Once the pasta is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully combined.
  6. Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir slowly until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Let the pasta rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Serve warm with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top if desired.

Notes

  • Add extra broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Fresh parmesan cheese melts better than packaged shredded cheese.
  • This recipe thickens as it sits.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth, milk, or cream.
  • Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Do not boil the sauce after adding cream because it can separate.