Dinner

Creamy Lemon Orzo Recipe

ByElena Hart April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

Introduction

This Creamy Lemon Orzo is a bright and comforting side dish with a rich, velvety texture. The combination of zesty lemon, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese makes it a perfect accompaniment to poultry, fish, or a simple salad.

A white bowl filled with creamy orzo pasta, showing about three layers of orzo coated in a light orange creamy sauce, with some small green basil shreds scattered on top. Two lemon slices rest on the left side of the orzo, and some grated cheese is lightly sprinkled over the dish. A gold fork is placed inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged in the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a green basil leaf and a small bowl of shredded cheese in the upper right background, and a beige striped cloth partially visible on the lower left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons salted butter
2 minced shallots

1 ½ cups orzo
3 minced cloves garlic

1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper
½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the salted butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallots and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add the orzo to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and lemon zest, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Then whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Stir gently to combine and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus brightness.
If you prefer a thicker texture, cook the orzo a little longer to reduce the liquid further.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the cream sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

A large white pot with light blue handles contains creamy pasta cooked in a thick sauce, with small pieces of bacon or pancetta mixed in. The pasta is covered with a layer of grated cheese and finely chopped fresh green herbs scattered on top. Two thin slices of lemon and a small green basil leaf sit on one side of the pot, adding a pop of yellow and green. A gold-colored spoon dips into the middle of the dish, scooping up a creamy portion. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with a striped gray and white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Orzo works best because of its small size and shape, but you can substitute with other small pasta like acini di pepe or ditalini. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. You can look for gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.