This Parmesan orzo is one of those simple recipes that everyone instantly loves. It’s cheesy, creamy, and comforting, yet light enough to serve alongside almost any main dish. For a quick Mediterranean-style macaroni and cheese, the basil can be omitted without sacrificing flavor. It’s also an easy recipe to double, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
After a long day, when dinner already includes a protein and vegetables, finding a satisfying starch that isn’t pasta or rice can feel repetitive. That’s where orzo comes in. With its small, rice-like shape and tender texture, it brings something different to the table while still delivering that familiar comfort-food vibe.
This Parmesan orzo fits right into busy weeknights. It requires very little prep, cooks quickly, and doesn’t demand much attention on the stove. Despite its simplicity, it feels special enough to elevate an otherwise ordinary meal.
The dish strikes a perfect balance between creamy and light. It delivers that cozy, cheesy satisfaction without feeling heavy or overwhelming, making it a great option when comfort food is needed but something lighter still sounds appealing.
It’s also surprisingly versatile. Served as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. With a few tweaks, it can easily lean Mediterranean, classic comfort, or even kid-friendly mac-and-cheese territory.
This is the kind of recipe that quietly becomes a household favorite. Once it makes its way onto the dinner table, it tends to show up again and again—often with empty bowls and requests for seconds (or thirds) to prove just how beloved it is.
Orzo with Parmesan and Basil
This Parmesan Orzo is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side for any meal. Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors, it’s a recipe everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in orzo and sauté until lightly browned.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a shallow bowl and garnish with remaining basil.
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