Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for added protein
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Add orzo pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and broth is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- If desired, fold in cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. Heat through for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped herbs and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and proteins for a personalized touch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian option if meat and seafood are omitted
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg