Garlic Butter Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Butter Orzo is a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. This creamy, garlicky pasta alternative is perfect when you want something simple yet satisfying to complement your main course.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring to coat each grain in the garlic butter.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, add salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well combined.
7. Step 7: Let rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra brightness and heat.
• Use fresh grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting consistency.
• Try adding cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dish.

Storage

Store leftover garlic butter orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use water instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use water, but the dish will be less flavorful. Adding a bouillon cube or seasoning can help boost the taste.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it contains gluten. You can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn at specialty stores.

Garlic Butter Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 108 reviews

This Garlic Butter Orzo recipe is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender orzo pasta sauteed in garlic-infused butter and olive oil, simmered in chicken broth, and finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for a rich, aromatic experience.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Orzo Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth

Flavoring Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Finishing Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat Butter and Oil: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with olive oil to create a flavorful cooking base.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
3. Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat each grain with the garlic butter mixture and enhance its nutty flavor.
4. Add Broth and Season: Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Combine Finishing Ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
7. Rest: Allow the orzo to rest for 2 minutes before serving, which helps meld the flavors together for a delicious finish.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Do not overcook the orzo to avoid it becoming mushy; it should remain tender with a slight bite.
• Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• You can add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh, bright twist.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Garlic Butter Orzo, Quick Side Dish, Easy Pasta Recipe, Orzo with Parmesan and Parsley, Garlic Butter Pasta