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Garlic Butter Orzo Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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