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Quick Marry Me Orzo Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Butter and Parmesan

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A quick and comforting orzo pasta dish featuring a rich sun-dried tomato butter and nutty Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170 grams) orzo pasta
  • 4 tablespoons (about 56 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup (about 30 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (preferably oil-packed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the sun-dried tomato butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Mix well until evenly blended. Set aside to let the flavors marry while you prep the orzo. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Toast the orzo: Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the orzo (dry, no oil) and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and nutty aroma develops.
  3. Add broth and cook: Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the orzo simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is mostly absorbed and orzo is tender but not mushy. Add more broth or water if needed.
  4. Stir in sun-dried tomato butter: Remove pan from heat and quickly stir in the sun-dried tomato butter mixture until every grain is coated.
  5. Add Parmesan and seasoning: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Finish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle in chopped fresh basil or parsley and gently stir to combine.
  7. Serve immediately: Spoon the orzo into bowls while warm, optionally topping with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

Notes

If butter isn’t softened, warm gently in microwave before mixing. Toasting orzo adds depth of flavor. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking but avoid over-stirring. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor. Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve brightness. Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently with broth to loosen sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: orzo recipe, sun-dried tomato butter, Parmesan pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/quick-marry-me-orzo-recipe-with-sun-dried-tomato-butter-and-parmesan/