Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the oil, butter, and onion to a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and orzo. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often to toast the orzo and build flavor.
- Stir in the chicken broth and cream. Once it starts to bubble, continue cooking for 10 minutes, uncovered, stirring fairly often. Reduce heat if needed to keep it at a gentle simmer.
- Remove the pot from the heat, stir in the parmesan and cheddar, and cover for 4–5 minutes until thickened to your liking. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve warm as a cozy side or base for your favorite main dish.
Notes
- Orzo is a type of pasta, not rice. Substituting rice will require different liquid ratios and cooking time.
- This dish thickens as it cools — add a splash of broth or cream to loosen before reheating.
- Try mixing in cooked veggies or shredded chicken for a complete one-pot meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian