Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

 Ingredients:

2 cups (400g) orzo pasta, uncooked

4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, divided

6-8 cloves garlic (about 3 tablespoons), minced

3½ cups (830ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth

1 cup (240ml) whole milk (half-and-half or heavy cream work too)

1 cup (100g) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (plus extra for garnish)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Add the dry orzo to the melted butter and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes until the pasta turns lightly golden and smells nutty. This toasting step adds incredible depth of flavor to your dish. 

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the toasted orzo. Stir continuously for 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or it may become bitter. This aromatic base will infuse throughout your creamy pasta.

Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then add the dried Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to maintain a low simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Around the 10-minute mark, taste-test a few pieces of orzo for doneness. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente), and the mixture should be creamy but not soupy. If needed, continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until you reach the desired consistency.

Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir vigorously until the cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and silky. The residual heat will melt everything together into a luxurious sauce that coats each grain of orzo.

Fold in most of the chopped parsley, reserving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo rest for 1-2 minutes before serving, as this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld together. Garnish with the remaining parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.