Description
Garlic Butter One Pan Orzo is a creamy, flavorful, and quick meal made in a single pan. The rich garlic butter pairs perfectly with tender orzo pasta for a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and clean up. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a versatile base that can be customized with your choice of proteins, vegetables, or herbs for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Orzo pasta
- 3–4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons Butter, divided
- 3 cups Chicken or vegetable broth, warm
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Garlic – Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes, releasing the essential oils for the base flavor.
- Step 2: Toast the Orzo – Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until it begins to turn golden, bringing out a subtle nuttiness.
- Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer – Pour in the warm chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a low boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender but not mushy, about 10-12 minutes.
- Step 4: Finish with Butter and Parmesan – Remove from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and fold in the chopped fresh herbs for brightness.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
- Stir frequently to prevent orzo from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Warm the broth before adding to cook orzo evenly and quickly.
- Aim for al dente texture; orzo will continue absorbing moisture after cooking.
- Add high-quality parmesan at the end for maximum creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg