Creamy Tomato Orzo

Creamy Tomato Orzo is a comforting, one-pan pasta dish featuring tender orzo simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce. Finished with cream and Parmesan, this recipe offers all the warmth of a risotto with less effort and a velvety texture that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is creamy, quick, and versatile—perfect as a cozy main or an elevated side. Orzo cooks fast and absorbs flavor like a sponge, while the tomato-cream base creates a silky sauce. Whether you’re after a vegetarian dinner or an impressive accompaniment, this recipe hits the mark in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Orzo pasta
• Olive oil or unsalted butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Shallot or onion (finely chopped)
• Tomato paste
• Canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
• Vegetable broth or water
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and shallot until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Add orzo and toast briefly until lightly golden.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
6. Reduce heat and stir in cream, Parmesan, and season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
7. Simmer until creamy and thickened to your liking.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Additions: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a fuller meal.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or plant-based cream and omit the cheese or substitute with vegan Parmesan.
• Cheesy Version: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for extra richness.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Lemon Finish: Add zest or juice before serving for brightness.

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not ideal due to dairy and pasta texture changes, but can be frozen if needed.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen.

FAQs

What is orzo?

Orzo is a short-cut pasta shaped like large grains of rice. It cooks quickly and is perfect for creamy or brothy dishes.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Orzo is ideal for this recipe, but small pasta shapes like ditalini or pastina may be used with adjusted liquid amounts.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Stir frequently during cooking, especially as it thickens.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but reheat gently with added liquid to restore creaminess.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, if made with vegetable broth and vegetarian Parmesan.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, with plant-based milk/cream and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Stir in spinach, peas, mushrooms, or roasted peppers.

What does the cream do in this recipe?

It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a silky texture.

Can I omit the cheese?

Yes, but it will be less savory—adjust with seasoning to compensate.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo contains wheat, but gluten-free versions are available.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Orzo is the ultimate quick comfort food—simple to prepare yet full of flavor and texture. Whether served as a standalone vegetarian dinner or a flavorful side, its creamy consistency and tomato richness make it a standout addition to any table.

Print