Easy Orzo with Parmesan and Basil

O is for Orzo!

For the letter O in the alphabet challenge, I made Orzo with Parmesan and Basil, a cheesy, buttery side dish that comes together fast.  

Orzo might look like rice, but it’s actually a cute little pasta that soaks up flavor super well. It’s a great way to switch up your usual sides without much effort.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 14-1/2 ounces chicken broth (low sodium)

• 1/2 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese

• 2 teaspoons dried basil

• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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How to Make Orzo with Parmesan and Basil

Step 1: Toast the Orzo

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast it for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s lightly golden and smells nutty.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Stir in Cheese, Basil and Pepper 

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and pepper.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

If you like, top with fresh basil for a pop of color. Serve warm as a side or light main dish.

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Tips for Perfect Orzo

• If the broth absorbs too fast, add a splash of water or extra broth.

• Fresh basil added right before serving brightens the dish.

• To make it vegetarian, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.

• Store leftover orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy.

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What to Serve with Orzo

This cheesy orzo pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp

• Roasted, grilled or steamed veggies

• Caesar Salad in Parmesan Bowls

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 20 minutes

• Uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand

• Buttery and cheesy without being heavy

• Versatile side dish for any meal or make it a main dish by adding a grilled protein

Thanks again to Wendy for hosting this fun challenge! Be sure to scroll down to see what the other bloggers are sharing for the letter O.  And if you want to catch up on everything I’ve made so far, you can find all my recipes here: Alphabet Challenge 2025.

If you try this recipe, I’d love it if you left a comment or rating on the recipe card. It’s always great to hear how your versions turn out!

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil

Author: Jolene's Recipe Journal

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 14-1/2 ounces chicken broth, low sodium
• 1/2 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• Fresh basil, optional

Instructions

1. In a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet, sauté orzo in butter until lightly browned, 3-5 minutes.
2. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender, 10-15 minutes. 
3. Stir in the cheese, basil and pepper. If desired, top with fresh basil.

Notes

https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/orzo-with-parmesan-basil/

Other recipes you may enjoy:

Aglio e Olio Pasta

Herb Vegetable Orzo Salad

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