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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo

Close-up of creamy lemon orzo pasta topped with fresh parsley and lemon zest in a white bowl.
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You can make this rich, flavorful orzo pasta dish in one pot, cutting down on cleanup time for a perfect weeknight dinner or satisfying side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Add the dry orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the edges look slightly golden.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until the sauce is creamy.
  6. Taste the orzo and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, you can add 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or steamed broccoli florets along with the cream in step 4.
  • If the orzo seems too thick after cooking, add a splash of water or extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
  • Use good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in this cheesy orzo recipe.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/creamy-lemon-parmesan-one-pot-orzo-pasta/