If you’re on the hunt for a quick and stunning side that feels like a hug in a bowl, Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is here to sweep you off your feet. This silky, risotto-style orzo cooks up in just one pot with plump, sweet peas and loads of savory Parmesan, wrapped up in a lush creamy sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both sophisticated and homey at the same time — equally at home on a busy weeknight as it is at a celebratory table. The best part? You only need a handful of simple ingredients to whip up something deeply satisfying. Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is a dish you’ll crave again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas lies in its simplicity: every ingredient brings something special to the table. Let’s break it down, so you can see how each one helps turn this easy dish into a favorite comfort food.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, mellow base that helps toast the orzo and gives the sauce its silky character.
- Olive oil: Brings a touch of fruitiness and helps prevent the butter from burning as you sauté.
- Garlic: Just two cloves for plenty of savory aroma and depth — don’t skip it!
- Orzo pasta: Tiny rice-shaped pasta that cooks to tender perfection quickly, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with savory goodness; choose vegetable broth if you want to make it vegetarian.
- Heavy cream: The secret to the lush, creamy texture that sets this dish apart.
- Frozen peas: Sweet, fresh-tasting peas add color, pop, and a touch of spring to every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the show — salty, nutty, and utterly irresistible when it melts into the sauce.
- Salt: Just a pinch is all you need to let the Parmesan and broth shine.
- Black pepper: A little sprinkle perks up all the other flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a burst of color and freshness to finish things off beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Grab a medium saucepan and set it over medium heat. Melt the butter with the olive oil, swirling them gently together. Once the butter starts to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly — you want the garlic to become fragrant but not browned, which sets the mellow, aromatic stage for the whole dish.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Now, pour in the orzo. Stir to coat each little piece with the buttery mixture, and let it toast for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch for a hint of golden color and a nutty aroma. This quick toast adds a lovely depth to your Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas (and helps keep the orzo tender, not mushy).
Step 3: Simmer in the Broth
Add the chicken broth to the pan. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, lifting the lid to give things an occasional stir. The orzo will soak up the broth and become perfectly creamy, with just a little liquid left in the pan when it’s ready.
Step 4: Add Cream, Peas, and Parmesan
When the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream, thawed peas, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Cook and stir for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until everything is hot and melting together in a creamy, dreamy sauce.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and give the orzo a final taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Spoon Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas into warm bowls and shower with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you’d like a fresh, vibrant finish. Dig in right away for the creamiest texture!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Garnishes
A finishing touch can elevate Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas from cozy to truly elegant. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a shower of freshly chopped parsley add color and brightness. If you have lemon zest handy, a grating over the top gives a light citrusy zing that pairs beautifully with the peas and cheese.
Side Dishes
This versatile side is delicious next to grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or pan-seared pork. For a vegetarian meal, try serving it with grilled portobello mushrooms or alongside a platter of roasted vegetables. Its creamy texture makes it a natural stand-in for risotto with almost any main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is gorgeous spooned into a shallow serving bowl family-style, but you can even serve it as a base for saucy mains. Try topping with lemony shrimp, sliced steak, or roasted cauliflower steaks for an impressive one-bowl meal. For parties, portion it into small bowls or ramekins as a bite-sized starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas cool to room temperature before you transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for lunch boxes or easy dinners. The orzo continues to absorb liquid as it sits, so expect it to thicken a bit overnight.
Freezing
For the best texture, it’s better to enjoy Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas fresh or after a short fridge stay, but you can freeze it in a pinch. Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for gentle reheating and stir in a splash of broth or cream to revive the creamy sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to loosen up the sauce as it warms. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. Add a touch more Parmesan and a sprinkling of fresh parsley to refresh the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh peas, use them in the same amount as frozen. Add a minute or two to the final cook time to ensure they become tender and sweet.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce may be a bit less rich. For a completely dairy-free version, try using canned coconut milk and a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Is Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas gluten free?
Orzo is typically made from wheat, so it isn’t gluten free by default. However, you can easily find gluten-free orzo pasta at many grocery stores, which works wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even flaked salmon to make Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas a full meal. You can also fold in roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Does this dish work as a make-ahead option for entertaining?
Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead side. Simply reheat gently just before serving and add a splash of broth or cream to get back the ultra-creamy texture. The flavors develop even more after resting, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create pure magic on your plate. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star, it delivers rich, comforting flavors every time. Give it a try and let it become a staple you turn to for both everyday dinners and special occasions!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this flavorful Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas recipe. A delightful mix of orzo pasta, peas, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a perfect side for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Orzo Mixture:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat butter and olive oil, then sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Cook Orzo: Add orzo, toast until golden, pour in broth, simmer until tender.
- Add Cream and Peas: Stir in cream, peas, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Cook until creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or shrimp.
- To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or roasted veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
