Make this creamy basil Parmesan orzo for a cozy weeknight side that comes together in minutes using just one pan.
One-Pot Side Dish Perks
- Flavor: Orzo pasta is lightly browned in butter for a nutty flavor, then cooked to a creamy texture like risotto. Fresh basil and grated Parmesan enhance the dish even more!
- Skill Level: It’s quick and easy to make with very simple spices and no need to drain the pasta. Definitely beginner-friendly.
- Serving: This cheesy orzo side dish is perfect with chicken, salmon, shrimp, or steak. Make it into a one-pot meal by adding your favorite protein and some roasted vegetables.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Orzo Pasta: Orzo has a rice-like appearance, but is actually pasta! Cook it al dente for a slightly chewy bite.
- Butter: Toasted orzo is best with real butter. Melt butter fully so the orzo browns evenly.
- Broth: We love beef broth for this one-pot orzo, but use what matches your meal. Chicken or vegetable broth work equally well.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and tastes nuttier than shelf-stable grated cheese. Add it off heat to avoid clumping.
- Basil: Bright and fresh basil goes in at the end for best flavor and presentation. If using dried basil, ‘bloom’ it in oil for a minute or so.
How to Make Parmesan Orzo
- In a large saucepan, sauté the orzo in butter until it is a light golden brown (full recipe below)
- Pour in the broth and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in basil, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
Pro Tips for Perfect Orzo
- Stir the orzo often while toasting so it browns evenly for the best nutty flavor without scorching.
- If the pan gets dry before the pasta turns tender, splash in a little broth and keep cooking. Warm broth before adding so that the dish will return to a simmer quickly.
- If you sub in pesto for basil, taste first because it is salty.
- Reheat leftovers with a bit of broth or water, stir well, and fluff with a fork if it clumps.
Storing Leftovers
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water, stirring halfway to keep it loose.
- Freeze: Store in flat bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with extra broth. It will be a bit softer but still delicious.
One Pot Easy Weeknights
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Parmesan Orzo
This easy Parmesan orzo with basil is rich, cheesy, and bright, with a quick toasting step that makes the flavor taste restaurant-level.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1½ cups dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups beef broth or chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ½ cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese
- 6 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 1½ teaspoons dried basil or 2 Tablespoons prepared pesto
- salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium high heat. Add orzo and saute for 2 minutes, stirring until lightly browned.
- Add broth to orzo and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until orzo is cooked and water is absorbed (about 20 minutes.)
- Stir in Parmesan and basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For each cup of dry orzo, you’ll get approximately 2½ cups of cooked orzo, or about 5 cups per 8-ounce package of orzo.
- How much orzo do you need for one person? When you’re serving it as a side dish, ¾ cup is the perfect amount. If you’re serving it as the main attraction for your meal, you’ll want to increase this to 1½ cups per serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 233 | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 640mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 353IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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Amazing dish that kids love to eat! Candace’s husband
I love orzo and this one has so much flavor!! It’s such an easy side dish! Candace’s sister
I’m so happy to hear that you love this orzo! It is so easy and tasty!