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orzo with parmesan cheese and bacon in bowl with parsley

Bacon Parmesan Orzo

  • Author: Dan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

This Bacon Parmesan Orzo is gorgeous enough for dinner parties or holidays, but also a totally easy side dish recipe for weeknight dinners!

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Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 cup orzo (uncooked)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 6 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped (reserving 2 tablespoons for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup half and half
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Add the oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion for 5 minutes, then add the garlic and cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the orzo and toast for 4-5 minutes, until lightly golden brown in color. Pour in the chicken broth and salt, stir, and then bring to a simmer.
  2. Turn the heat down to a low simmer, cover and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
  3. Add the parmesan cheese, chopped bacon, half and half and parsley. Garnish with the reserved bacon, black pepper, parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes

You can add another splash of chicken broth at the end if you like a looser texture to the orzo.

  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: American