Make this creamy tomato orzo in one pot for a comforting meal. You get rich flavor without the worry of mushy pasta. This recipe brings delicious memories right to your table.
Author:Eleanor Langley
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup orzo pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the orzo to the simmering liquid. Stir well to prevent sticking.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir often, especially near the end, to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
Stirring frequently is key to achieving a creamy texture without overcooking the orzo.
Use good quality broth for the best overall flavor.
For a brighter tomato flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.