Name: Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic (whole, unpeeled, for roasting); 1 tsp olive oil (for drizzling garlic before roasting); 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium, kept warm); 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing); 1 cup onion (finely chopped); 1 tsp garlic (minced fresh, for sautéing); 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 0.5 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly, look no further than this Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto. With tender orzo pasta cooked slowly in savory chicken broth and enriched with roasted garlic and freshly grated Parmesan, this dish delivers the indulgence of a classic risotto with less fuss. The subtle sweetness of roasted garlic combined with the sharp umami of Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that’s both elegant and easy to make.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto stands out because it combines the creamy texture of a traditional risotto with the quick-cooking convenience of orzo pasta. Unlike arborio rice, orzo cooks faster and requires less stirring, making it perfect for busy days when you crave comfort food. Roasting the garlic beforehand mellows its sharpness and adds a subtle caramelized sweetness, elevating the overall flavor profile. The addition of fresh parsley brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese and broth. Plus, this recipe uses simple pantry staples and yields a luscious, satisfying side or main course.

Ingredient Notes

Orzo pasta: Choose high-quality orzo for the best texture. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for risotto-style dishes.
Chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels. Homemade or store-bought both work, but a rich broth enhances the savory base.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, slightly peppery note and is perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic.
Onion: Finely chopped yellow or white onion provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic: Roasted garlic cloves are key here—they bring a mellow, buttery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sharp Parmesan.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for that creamy, salty finish. Avoid pre-grated for best melting and flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the broth and cheese.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to offset the rich ingredients.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Oven-safe small baking dish: For roasting the garlic cloves.
Medium saucepan: To warm the chicken broth gently.
Large skillet or sauté pan: Wide enough to cook the orzo evenly and allow liquid absorption.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the orzo without scratching your pan.
Grater: To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Directions: Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place 3 whole garlic cloves (unpeeled) in a small baking dish, drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil, and cover tightly with foil. Roast for 20-25 minutes until soft and golden. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

In a medium saucepan, warm 4 cups of chicken broth over low heat. Keeping the broth warm ensures even cooking when added to the orzo.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced fresh garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and coated with oil. This step adds a subtle nuttiness to the dish.

Step 5: Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the warm chicken broth one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the orzo to absorb most of the liquid before adding the next ladle. This process should take about 12-15 minutes until the orzo is tender but still slightly al dente.

Step 6: Stir in Roasted Garlic and Parmesan

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the roasted garlic cloves, 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce that coats every grain.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve your Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto warm as a comforting side or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

Dairy-free: Replace Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Gluten-free: Substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta shaped like rice or small grains; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Low sodium: Opt for low-sodium broth and reduce added salt to control sodium intake.

What I Learned Testing

Roasting the garlic before adding it to the risotto adds a mellow, sweet flavor that is far superior to raw garlic.
Warming the broth keeps the orzo cooking consistently without slowing down the process.
Stirring frequently but not obsessively ensures a creamy texture while preventing the orzo from sticking or burning.
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese results in a silkier, more flavorful risotto than pre-grated varieties.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds a lovely color contrast.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can roast the garlic cloves up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The orzo risotto itself is best enjoyed fresh but will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. For meal prep, portion into airtight containers and garnish with parsley just before serving for freshness.

Reader Q&A

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth is a great alternative that will still provide a savory base for your risotto. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned so your Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto has plenty of flavor.

What if I don’t have time to roast garlic?

If you’re short on time, you can use minced fresh garlic sautéed with the onions, but roasting really enhances the flavor. Alternatively, garlic powder can be added sparingly for a quick garlic note.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes! Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just adjust seasonings to taste.

Is it possible to make this risotto in a slow cooker?

While orzo cooks quickly on the stovetop, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by combining all ingredients except the cheese and parsley and cooking on low for 2-3 hours. Stir in cheese and parsley at the end before serving.

Keep Cooking

Looking for a creamy, garlicky pasta dish? Try this Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo for a vibrant twist.
If you love roasted garlic flavors, you’ll adore the Roasted Garlic Tomato Tortellini Bake—a cheesy, comforting casserole perfect for dinner parties.

Wrap-Up

The Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto is a deliciously creamy, flavorful dish that blends the best of risotto with the convenience of orzo pasta. Its rich roasted garlic and Parmesan flavors create a comforting meal that’s easy enough for weeknights yet special enough to serve guests. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves cozy, cheesy dishes that come together quickly. Whether paired with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or enjoyed on its own, this risotto is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and savor every creamy bite!

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