Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The orzo is toasted for extra nuttiness, then simmered until tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth and cream. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy punch that perfectly complements the creamy sauce, while Parmesan ties everything together with its savory taste. It’s quick, hearty, and versatile—you can enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian meal or pair it with grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

orzo pasta
vegetable broth
heavy cream
sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
grated Parmesan cheese
garlic, minced
onion, finely chopped
olive oil
Italian seasoning
salt and pepper
fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes.
Cook the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
Add the Liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until the orzo is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
Spinach Orzo: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for extra color and nutrients.
Cheese Swap: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter dish.
Extra Herbs: Add fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley for a herbaceous twist.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the onion for an earthy depth.
Pesto Finish: Stir in a spoonful of pesto before serving for a fresh, garlicky flavor.
Lemon Zest: Add zest of one lemon to brighten the richness of the cream.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free orzo to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it may dry out the orzo. Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed.

FAQs

What is orzo pasta?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, slightly undercook the orzo and reheat gently with added cream or broth.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, chicken broth adds a richer flavor if you’re not keeping the dish vegetarian.

Do I need to toast the orzo?

Toasting enhances flavor, but you can skip this step if pressed for time.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir occasionally during cooking and keep the heat low once it starts absorbing the broth.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Use plant-based cream, vegan Parmesan, and vegetable broth.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, seafood, or a fresh salad.

Can I use dry sun-dried tomatoes instead of those in oil?

Yes, but rehydrate them in warm water or broth before chopping and adding to the dish.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the dish rest a few minutes off heat—the orzo will absorb more liquid and the sauce will naturally thicken.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Its silky cream sauce, tangy tomatoes, and savory Parmesan make it a versatile recipe that can be served as a side or the star of the meal. Quick to prepare yet indulgent enough for special occasions, this orzo dish is sure to become a favorite for both weeknight comfort and elegant entertaining.