Creamy Buttery Orzo with Parmesan

This orzo is buttery, creamy, and full of Parmesan in the best way. It all comes together in one pot and turns creamy without using heavy cream. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s comforting, simple, and the kind of side dish that fits effortlessly into any dinner table.

A bowl of creamy orzo pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan, with a spoon ready to serve.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups hot chicken broth (or hot water)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper

• Extra Parmesan for serving

  
  

Instructions

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.

Pour in the hot broth, season lightly with salt and pepper, and simmer uncovered until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan until it melts and the orzo turns creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.