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Garlic Butter Orzo

Garlic Butter Orzo
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Garlic Butter Orzo is a quick and easy creamy side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in garlic-infused butter and broth, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfectly versatile, it complements a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it an ideal addition to weeknight dinners or festive meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta
  • 3 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth, warm
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

    Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook gently, stirring frequently, until fragrant and just golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step unlocks the full aroma and flavor without burning the garlic.

  2. Step 2: Toast the Orzo

    Add orzo pasta to the skillet and stir it into the garlic butter. Toast it lightly for 2 to 3 minutes until the orzo starts to turn golden-brown, which adds a lovely nutty depth to the dish.

  3. Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

    Pour in warm chicken or vegetable broth, season lightly with salt and pepper, and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The orzo will soak up the broth and become tender.

  4. Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

    Once the orzo is fully cooked and creamy, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This final step adds richness and freshness, rounding out the dish beautifully.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Garlic for brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • Warm your broth before adding to help the orzo cook evenly and faster.
  • Don’t skip toasting the orzo to add a subtle, nutty flavor.
  • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but avoid over-stirring to keep the orzo from becoming mushy.
  • Adjust butter quantity to taste for richer or lighter results.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter orzo, quick side dish, creamy orzo, easy pasta side, garlic pasta, butter pasta, Parmesan orzo

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/garlic-butter-orzo/