If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that always gets rave reviews, this Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is your new secret weapon. It’s a luxurious, one-pot pasta that comes together in just 20 minutes, delivering creamy richness, delicate pops of sweetness from the peas, and a big, cheesy Parmesan flavor that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a beautiful side dish or letting it shine as the main event, you’ll find yourself craving that luscious texture and comforting aroma again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so special is just how simple the ingredient list is. Each item pulls its weight in delivering incredible taste, creamy comfort, and visual appeal—no fussing, no fancy tricks, just tried-and-true pantry staples working their magic.
- Olive oil: For that hint of fruitiness and to start the garlic sizzling.
- Garlic (minced): Adds warmth and a delicious fragrance that anchors the dish.
- Orzo pasta: The star that swells up creamy and tender, soaking up all the flavors.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth and keeps the texture luscious.
- Frozen peas: Bring bursts of color and a subtle sweetness, plus extra nutrition.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For bold, salty, umami flavor and ultra-creamy results.
- Heavy cream: Turns everything velvety and rich, worthy of any Italian trattoria.
- Unsalted butter: Adds shine, silkiness, and a hint of richness right at the end.
- Salt: Enhances flavors and ties everything together.
- Black pepper: For a gentle, warming kick to balance the creaminess.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A pretty pop of green and freshness to finish things off beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Get things going by warming a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Add your minced garlic and let it sizzle just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. The kitchen will smell amazing, and this step builds the flavorful base you’ll notice in every bite.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it thoroughly with the garlicky oil. Keep the heat on medium and gently toast the orzo for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. This step adds a subtle, nutty note and helps keep the orzo’s texture just right.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it all to a simmer. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let the orzo cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in the Peas
Toss in your frozen peas and stir everything together. Give it another 2 to 3 minutes—just enough for the peas to heat through and turn vibrantly green. This is when your Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas really starts to pop, both in flavor and color.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan, Cream, and Butter
Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan, heavy cream, unsalted butter, salt, and black pepper. Everything will melt together into a creamy, dreamy tangle of pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—then serve up that steaming bowl of joy!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Garnishes
No bowl of Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is truly finished without a confetti of chopped fresh parsley or extra shavings of Parmesan on top. The parsley brings a spark of freshness, while a sprinkle of black pepper adds a bit of drama for the eyes and the palate.
Side Dishes
This orzo dish is so versatile that it pairs beautifully with just about anything. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. If you’re going vegetarian, a platter of roasted vegetables and a hunk of crusty bread turn it into something special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner party presentation, spoon Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas into individual ramekins and top with microgreens. You can also use it as a bed for seared scallops or toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken for an all-in-one meal. It’s fun, elegant, and always a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have extra, transfer leftovers to an airtight container as soon as they cool to room temperature. Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal-prepping or quick lunches.
Freezing
While the creaminess may change a bit, you can freeze this dish for up to a month. Portion cooled orzo into freezer-safe containers, label, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently, and a splash of cream or broth will refresh it nicely.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a bit of milk, cream, or broth if the orzo has thickened up. Stir occasionally until it’s hot and creamy again, just like day one.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh peas, just blanch them briefly and stir in toward the end as you would with frozen. They’ll add glorious color and a sweet pop.
Does Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas work as a main dish?
Yes, it absolutely does! Especially if you stir in some shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or extra vegetables to bulk it up, it makes a delightful, satisfying main course.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
You can swap out heavy cream for milk or even half-and-half for a lighter texture. It won’t be quite as rich, but Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas will still be decadently creamy and delicious.
Can I make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas ahead of time?
You can make it a day in advance and gently reheat before serving. Just remember to stir in an extra splash of cream or broth when reheating to revive the velvety consistency.
What type Side Dish
Freshly grated Parmesan (directly off the block) is ideal for both flavor and meltability. Pre-grated can work in a pinch, but real Parmigiano-Reggiano will truly elevate the Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dig your fork into a steaming bowl of Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas. It’s such a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into something warm, memorable, and utterly irresistible. Give it a try, and let it become the go-to comfort dish you’ll want to make again and again!
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Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is a delicious and comforting side dish that is quick and easy to make. The creamy orzo is cooked in a flavorful broth, then mixed with sweet peas, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream for a rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan, heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy pancetta.
- You can use milk instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
