Orzo is one of those ingredients that I always have in my pantry. It’s quick-cooking, pairs well with just about anything, and can be adapted in so many ways. This Everyday Orzo is my go-to base recipe, and I make variations of it all the time. It’s rich, flavorful, and creamy without needing heavy cream—just simple ingredients coming together beautifully.

The best part? You probably already have everything you need to make it! Serve it as a side, top it with chicken or shrimp for a full meal, or switch up the flavors to match what you’re craving. Once you make this, I’m sure you’ll be adding it to your weekly rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Everyday Orzo

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
✔ Made with Pantry Staples – No fancy ingredients required.
✔ Creamy & Flavorful – Without needing heavy cream!
✔ Versatile – Change up the seasonings, cheese, or add-ins to make it your own.

Everyday Orzo Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups orzo (one 16 oz package)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

How to Make It:

1. Sauté the Aromatics – Melt the butter in a large pan or enameled Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Toast the Orzo – Add the orzo, salt, pepper, and thyme to the pan. Stir everything together and let the orzo toast slightly for a minute—this adds so much depth of flavor!
3. Simmer – Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Let It Rest – After 10 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the lid on for another 10-15 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb all the liquid, making it perfectly tender and creamy.
5. Finish with Cheese – Stir in the Gruyère cheese and cover again for a few minutes so it melts into the orzo.
6. Serve & Enjoy – This orzo is perfect as a side dish or as a base for a full meal. I love to top it with grilled chicken and serve it with roasted Brussels sprouts.

Ways to Switch It Up

This recipe is super customizable! Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Add protein – Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, or cooked shrimp.
• Make it vegetarian – Swap chicken stock for veggie broth and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.
• Change up the cheese – Try Parmesan, feta, or white cheddar for a different flavor.
• Boost the flavor – Add lemon zest, a splash of white wine, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

This Everyday Orzo is my tried-and-true recipe, and I can’t wait to share even more variations with you. Whether you serve it on its own or as part of a bigger meal, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy orzo? Let me know in the comments!