This delicious creamy orzo pasta recipe is perfect for those busy weeknight dinners! This Mediterranean cuisine-inspired dish is something that I have loved creating as it's so quick and easy to throw together without skimping on flavor! With my one-pot creamy orzo recipe featuring a creamy texture, I’m giving Jamie Oliver’s 15-Minute Meals a run for their money.

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One pot creamy orzo

It might look like there are a few ingredients for this Orzo pasta recipe, but they’re normally pantry staples. From the chicken stock to the tomatoes, garlic, and lemon, these are easily accessible ingredients that you might just have on hand. Using chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor and moisture, ensuring the orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors during cooking. You can always use vegetable stock if you would like to keep this dish vegetarian. These quick weeknight meals are all about two things: having easy to make and accessible ingredients.

If you love orzo recipes then check out my lemon chicken one pan orzo and lemony shrimp orzo.

Orzo, or…Risoni

Risoni vs Orzo. It’s all the same thing—just known by different names in different places. I love orzo because it feels like the cheats way to make risotto. Orzo is a popular term used in many parts of the world, while risoni is commonly used in Italy and other European countries. Both names refer to a type of small, grain-like pasta that is perfect for soups, salads, and creamy sauces.

It’s less work, less of a labour of love and can be made on a weeknight. Orzo is a great and fun pasta shape that is often overlooked, but not anymore! Feta cheese can be a flavorful addition to orzo, enhancing the dish when paired with various vegetables and herbs. Orzo is perfect comfort food for any occasion.

The sauce

I know that on the internet I’m known as the garlic girl, but I actually think I use just as many tomatoes as I do cloves of garlic! For this Orzo recipe, scorch the tomatoes so that they become soft and then burst open to create a rich and jammy sauce., and become part of the sauce itself. Incorporating fresh spinach can further enhance the overall flavor and visual appeal of the dish. My one-pot creamy orzo pasta is brought together and made saucier by using cream, chicken stock, and lemon zest. This enhances the flavor of the sauce! And, the other good thing? The sauce and pasta is all made in the one pot!

How to Cook Orzo Pasta

Cooking orzo pasta is a breeze, making it a go-to for quick and delicious meals. Here’s a simple guide to get you started when you aren't cooking orzo in a one pot recipe like this one!

1. Boil: In a large pot, bring chicken broth or vegetable broth to a rolling boil. This not only cooks the orzo but infuses it with rich flavor.
2. Cook: Add the orzo pasta to the boiling broth, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
3. Drain: Once cooked, drain the orzo pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.
4. Season: Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

For an extra flavor boost, try cooking the orzo in a skillet with olive oil and aromatics like garlic and onions before adding the broth. This method allows the orzo to absorb even more delicious flavors, making your dish absolutely irresistible.

One Pot Creamy Orzo Recipe

This one pot creamy orzo recipe is a perfect example of how orzo can be used to create a delicious and satisfying meal. The recipe uses a combination of chicken stock, tomatoes, garlic, and lemon to create a creamy and flavorful sauce. The addition of fresh herbs and parmesan cheese adds a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish. This recipe, just like my lemon chicken orzo, is perfect for a weeknight meal, as it can be made in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup.

My Tips for the Perfect Orzo Pasta

Serve Immediately: Orzo is perfect for quick meals but can become mushy if it sits too long. Serve your orzo pasta right away for the best texture and flavour!

Season Well: Generously season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavours of the ingredients. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, prawns, or bacon. These proteins complement the creamy orzo and add extra richness to the dish. They also make a nutritious addition, enhancing both the flavor and texture of your orzo pasta.

Quick and Easy: Rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy, versatile protein addition that enhances the overall flavor and appeal of the recipe.

Storing Leftovers of Orzo Pasta

Store your cooked orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep it from drying out. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese can also add a delightful burst of flavor.

If you prefer to freeze your orzo pasta, it’s best to do so before adding any sauces or seasonings. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, let it cool, and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen orzo pasta can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the orzo in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up with some chicken broth or vegetable broth for a quick and tasty meal.

By following these tips, you can ensure your orzo pasta remains delicious and ready to enjoy, whether it’s fresh from the pot or reheated for a speedy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients and Substitutions for Orzo Pasta Recipe

Here are some common ingredients and substitutions used in orzo pasta recipes:

• Orzo pasta: This is the main ingredient in most orzo recipes. Look for orzo pasta made from high-quality ingredients and with a good texture.
• Olive oil: Olive oil is a common ingredient used in many orzo recipes. It adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth is a staple ingredient in many orzo recipes as it add lots of flavor to the dish! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is a popular ingredient used in many orzo recipes. You can substitute parmesan cheese with feta cheese or goats cheese.
• Fresh herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, and thyme are commonly used in orzo recipes. They add a beautiful flavor and freshness throughout.
• Lemon juice: Lemon juice is a common ingredient used in many orzo recipes. It adds flavor and brightness to the dish.
• Cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a popular ingredient used in many orzo recipes. They make the most beautiful sauce that will beat an jarred tomato sauce you can buy in the store. I always like to use vine ripened tomatoes.
• Fresh spinach: Fresh spinach is a nutritious ingredient used in many orzo recipes. If you are looking for a little extra nutrition, toss some fresh spinach throughout.
• Aromatics: Aromatics like garlic and onions is the base to make great orzo recipes.

If you make this Orzo recipe, please tag me on Instagram, Tik Tok or Pinterest so I can see your wonderful creations!If you have any questions or would like to leave a review, please do so here! I always love answering your food and recipe related questions and hearing your feedback on my recipes.

Images by Alanna Penn Photography.