One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

Category: Complete Meals with Minimal Cleanup

This vibrant one pot lemon orzo pasta delivers bright flavor and creamy texture in just 20 minutes. Orzo is quickly toasted with butter and garlic then cooked in broth until tender. A splash of cream and grated parmesan create a luscious finish, all balanced by zesty lemon juice and fresh parsley. Easily adaptable for your favorite small pasta shapes, this dish keeps prep and cleanup minimal. Savor the subtle tang of lemon with every forkful, making it an ideal maincourse for vegetarians or anyone craving a light, yet satisfying meal. Serve warm straight from the skillet for an effortless dinner.

A woman with a smile on her face.
Created By Melanie Carter
Updated on Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:23:02 GMT
A bowl of pasta with lemon and herbs. Pin
A bowl of pasta with lemon and herbs. | mellierecipes.com

Bright Lemon Orzo Pasta is quick creamy and always a crowd pleaser for spring and summer nights. In less than half an hour you get silky orzo bathed in a subtle lemon cream sauce with every bite kissed by fresh parsley and savory Parmesan. This was the very first pasta I cooked for my new neighbors and we all agreed it tasted like sunshine in a bowl.

I whipped this up once on a whim after a long workday and was stunned by how something so simple could feel so special. Now it is my go to when I need comfort and brightness in one satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

  • Orzo pasta: Choose small fresh orzo for even cooking and a tender bite
  • Salted butter: Adds richness and helps toast the pasta for depth of flavor
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a fragrant boost and infuses the sauce
  • Low sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Use a quality broth for balanced flavor without overpowering salt
  • Salt: Seasoning is important to balance the creamy and citrusy notes
  • Cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked for pops of subtle heat and aroma
  • Cream: Any cream works but heavy cream offers a lush texture and richer taste
  • Parmesan: Fresh grated Parmesan melts smoothly and delivers nutty boldness
  • Fresh parsley: Brings herbaceous brightness and color to the dish
  • Juice of lemon: Use ripe juicy lemons for a clean citrusy punch

When picking orzo choose a brand with golden color and uniform size for even cooking. Real Parmesan and fresh parsley make all the difference for a flavor boost.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt and Toast:
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat then add orzo and minced garlic. Toast together for about two minutes until the grains turn lightly golden and fragrant. This step builds a deep nutty base.
Simmer the Orzo:
Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper. Stir well. Allow it to come to a boil then lower to medium low heat. Cover and simmer gently for about ten minutes stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking. The goal is tender pasta with most of the liquid absorbed.
Finish Creamy Sauce:
Once the orzo is just cooked stir in cream Parmesan and parsley. The dairy will melt into the broth creating a silky sauce that clings to each grain of pasta.
Lemon for Brightness:
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice bit by bit tasting as you go for your preferred level of zestiness. The citrus should make the flavors come alive without overpowering the dish.
A bowl of pasta with lemon and herbs. Pin
A bowl of pasta with lemon and herbs. | mellierecipes.com

If you haven’t tried finishing orzo with lemon before it will change everything. My favorite moment was serving this to my lemon loving aunt who immediately asked for the recipe with a big smile. Lemon makes every bite sparkle.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to keep the texture creamy and smooth. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating. If freezing let cool completely first and know that the pasta will soften after thawing but is still delicious for a fast lunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap orzo for any tiny pasta like ditalini or even small alphabet shapes for a fun twist. If you are out of cream try using half and half or even a splash of whole milk but the sauce will be a bit lighter. Vegan butter and plant based cream can be used for a dairy free spin but you may want to adjust the broth and seasoning for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this as a standalone main for busy weeknights or alongside roasted vegetables or fish. Add extra lemon zest and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a brighter or spicier finish. To turn this into a heartier meal stir in sautéed spinach or spring peas at the end for color and nutrition.

Cultural Context

Orzo or risoni is a beloved small shape in Mediterranean and American kitchens prized for its tender bite and quick cook time. Lemon cream sauces are a classic pairing especially when you want something that feels sophisticated yet totally approachable. I find it is the perfect recipe for potlucks and picnics because it travels so well and everyone loves its cheerful taste.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the lemon flavor stronger?

For extra lemon brightness, add a little grated lemon zest along with the juice at the end of cooking, adjusting to your taste.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other small shapes like ditalini or alphabet pasta work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ Is it possible to omit the cream?

Absolutely. Just use extra broth instead for a lighter texture, though the sauce will be less rich.

→ How do I prevent the orzo from sticking or burning?

Stir the orzo frequently as it cooks and keep an eye on the liquid level, adding more broth if needed to prevent sticking.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating on the stove or microwave to keep the pasta moist and saucy.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it. Note that the texture of the orzo may become softer upon thawing, but flavor remains delicious.

One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta

Creamy orzo pasta with lemon, parmesan and herbs—perfect for weeknights or spring gatherings.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Cooking Time
20 minutes
Created By: Melanie Carter

Recipe Category: One-Pot Meals

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Style: American

Result Amount: 4 Portions (1 skillet of lemon orzo pasta)

Diet Preferences: Suitable for Vegetarians

What You’ll Need to Make This

01 1 tablespoon salted butter
02 278 grams uncooked orzo pasta
03 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
04 600 millilitres low sodium vegetable or chicken broth
05 0.5 teaspoon salt
06 0.25 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
07 80 millilitres cream (heavy or light)
08 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
09 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
10 Juice of 1 lemon

How to Prepare

Step 01

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add orzo and minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is lightly toasted and fragrant.

Step 02

Pour in the broth, season with salt and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes. Add additional broth if needed to achieve the preferred texture.

Step 03

Stir in the cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Add lemon juice slowly, tasting as you go, until the flavor is bright and balanced. Serve immediately.

Extra Tips

  1. For a richer sauce, use heavy cream; for a lighter texture, opt for light cream or omit and add extra broth. Enhance lemon flavor with zest if desired.
  2. Store leftovers refrigerated up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
  3. Selected small pasta shapes such as ditalini or alphabet pasta can be substituted for orzo.

Tools Required

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking spoon
  • Knife and chopping board

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you’ve got specific concerns.
  • Contains dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan cheese)
  • Contains gluten (orzo pasta)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, this info is purely for reference and isn’t meant to replace dietary guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 277
  • Fat Content: 6 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 45 grams
  • Protein Content: 11 grams