Name: Creamy Orzo with Garlic Butter Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup water (for cooking orzo)

This creamy orzo with garlic butter asparagus is a comforting yet fresh dish that combines tender pasta, a rich creamy sauce, and crisp-tender asparagus. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but feels elegant enough for entertaining.

Creamy Orzo with Garlic Butter Asparagus

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, creamy, and versatile. The orzo cooks up perfectly tender and soaks in all the flavors of the sauce, while the asparagus adds a bright, fresh bite. I also like that it feels satisfying without being too heavy, and it’s easy to pair with chicken, fish, or even enjoy on its own.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Orzo pasta
Asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken or vegetable broth
Parmesan cheese, grated
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Salt and black pepper

Directions

I begin by cooking the orzo in a mixture of broth and water until tender, which infuses the pasta with extra flavor. While that cooks, I sauté the asparagus in butter and olive oil until it’s bright green and just tender, then add the garlic to release its fragrance.

Once the orzo is cooked, I stir in the cream and Parmesan, letting it simmer until thickened and creamy. Then I fold in the asparagus and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. I season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It usually takes me around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and about 20 minutes to cook everything, so the dish is ready in about 30 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, which makes it a more complete meal. I also like to swap asparagus for other spring vegetables such as peas or zucchini. For a lighter version, I occasionally replace the heavy cream with half-and-half.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I usually add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, I can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, though I find orzo gives the best creamy texture.

Do I need to blanch the asparagus first?

No, I don’t blanch it. I just sauté it until tender-crisp, which keeps it bright and flavorful.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, I just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it’s fully vegetarian.

What kind of Parmesan works best?

I like to use freshly grated Parmesan because it melts smoothly and gives the sauce a richer flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I can use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Conclusion

This creamy orzo with garlic butter asparagus is one of my go-to comfort meals that feels both wholesome and indulgent. I like how quickly it comes together, yet it always tastes like something special. Whether I serve it as a side or make it the main event, this dish is always a hit at my table.