Creamy Tomato Basil Parmesan Orzo

Creamy Tomato Basil Parmesan Orzo is cooked risotto-style with fresh cherry tomatoes, asparagus, basil, and Parmesan for an easy one-pan summer dinner packed with garden-fresh flavor.

Prep Time5

Cook Time30

Total Time35

Course: Dinner, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Creamy Parmesan Orzo, Creamy Tomato Basil Orzo, Orzo Recipe

Servings: people

Author: Silvia Dunnirvine

Ingredients

1 cup orzo
4 tbsp butter
1/2 red onion diced small
3-4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
6 spears asparagus chopped small
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup parmesan cheese
1 tsp ground pepper
handful fresh basil

Instructions

Melt the butter in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the cherry tomatoes, chopped asparagus and dry orzo. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently. The tomatoes will begin softening and releasing their juices while the orzo lightly toasts, adding extra depth of flavor.
Pour in half of the chicken broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the broth has been absorbed. Add the remaining broth and continue stirring until the orzo is tender and creamy.
This gradual cooking method allows the pasta to release its natural starches, creating the signature creamy texture without needing cream.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan until completely melted. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper.
Finish with torn fresh basil and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage

Allow the orzo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

As it sits, the pasta will continue absorbing liquid and become even creamier.

Reheating Instructions

The easiest way to restore the creamy texture is to add a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating.

Warm gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until smooth.

You can also microwave individual portions with a tablespoon or two of broth.

Nutrition