Creamy Orzo

Name: Creamy Orzo Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter (salted butter); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1 ¾ cup chicken stock; ¼ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon pepper; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped, optional)

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This Creamy Orzo Pasta is an easy one-pan dish where the orzo is cooked right in chicken broth, soaking up flavor as it becomes perfectly tender. A splash of cream and Parmesan cheese turns it into a rich, creamy side dish. Simple, comforting, and ready in 20 minutes.

At a Glance: Creamy pasta side dish made with simple ingredients• Serves 4 • Ready in 20 minutes • Perfect for weeknight dinners.

Easy one-pan creamy orzo

This is the kind of recipe I make when I want something easy but still homemade. The orzo cooks right in the broth, so it absorbs all the flavor while creating a naturally creamy texture without a lot of extra steps.

Everything comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup and a simple side dish that works with almost any main meal. I often serve it with chicken or fish, but it’s just as good alongside roasted vegetables.

The cream and Parmesan are added at the end to bring everything together. The result is a smooth, creamy pasta that feels cozy and comforting but is still light enough for an everyday dinner.

Another simple, but delicious side we often make with orzo is this orzo side dish with butter, a handful of dried herbs, and a bit of Parmesan.

Key ingredients

Small bowls filled with ingredients for making orzo pasta.

Orzo Pasta - Rice shaped pasta. You could also use any small sized pasta.
Chicken Stock - Use your favorite variety of stock or broth.
Heavy Cream - Adds a creaminess to the pasta. You could also use half-and-half or whole milk, but the pasta won't be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese - Adds flavor and a bit of saltiness.
Dried Thyme - You could also use Italian seasoning.
Garlic - Adds flavor.

Making creamy orzo pasta

This section provides an overview of the recipe with step-by-step photos. The complete recipe with measurements can be found at the bottom of this post.

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet (with a lid) over medium heat.
Add orzo and stir to coat the pasta. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the pasta begins to brown just slightly.
Clear a spot in the center of the pan and add the garlic. Cook for 30-60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.

Stir in chicken stock, thyme, salt and pepper.
Bring to a simmer and then place a lid on the skillet. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is cooked to your liking, about 10 minutes.

If the pasta needs to cook a bit longer, add a bit more stock (1-2 tablespoons).

Stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another minute until the cream is absorbed.

Creamy pasta in a skillet with a wooden spoon.

Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Recipe tips

The amount of stock needed will vary slightly each time. If the orzo becomes too dry, add a bit more.
If using unsalted stock, add more salt, if needed.
Stir the orzo often while it cooks so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer.

Recipe variations

Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Add a little heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the stock.
Turn it into a main dish: Add 1 cup of cooked, chopped chicken along with the cream. Heat just until the chicken is warmed through.
Add vegetables: Stir in a handful of baby spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
Change the cheese: Try grated Asiago or Romano in place of the Parmesan for a slightly different flavor.
Add lemon: Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make creamy orzo ahead of time?

This dish is best served hot, right after cooking while it's smooth and creamy.

Can I use milk instead of cream in this creamy orzo?

Yes, milk can be used. Your pasta won't be as creamy, but it will still be delicious.

What's the best way to store any leftover creamy orzo?

Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave. If the orzo has become too dry or thick, stir in a splash of cream after the orzo is reheated.