Caramelized Onion Orzo Parmesan (Printable Version)

Velvety orzo paired with caramelized onions and Parmesan for a satisfying Mediterranean dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Pasta

03 - 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

→ Dairy

04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

→ Liquids

08 - 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth, heated

→ Herbs & Seasonings

09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Directions:

01 - Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and a pinch of salt then cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic and thyme into the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
03 - Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden.
04 - Add heated vegetable broth gradually, stirring continuously. Allow each addition to absorb before adding more. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until orzo is creamy and al dente.
05 - Blend in grated Parmesan and heavy cream if desired. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
06 - Remove skillet from heat and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes. Top with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses budget-friendly ingredients found in most kitchens
  • Delivers a velvety creamy texture without lots of cream
  • Perfect make-ahead side or vegetarian main for busy nights
  • Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time
02 -
  • High in comforting flavor thanks to slow cooked onions
  • Vegetarian and easily adapts to vegan or gluten free diets
  • Stores well and reheats beautifully for meal prep
03 -
  • Always be patient with the onions. Let them caramelize slowly for the deepest flavor
  • Keep the broth hot and close by so each addition keeps the cooking process even
  • If you love a sharper flavor finish with an extra dusting of Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving

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