Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo on busy weeknights. The rich, velvety sauce pairs perfectly with the tender orzo, and it all comes together in just under 30 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes add an irresistible depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary pasta meal. Whether it's a comforting family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. I can't wait for you to try it and enjoy the creamy goodness just as much as I do!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:22:07.722Z

Creating this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo was a delightful journey in the kitchen. I started with the simplest ingredients, letting the sun-dried tomatoes shine through with their concentrated flavor. The key to achieving that creamy texture lies in the starchy orzo, which thickens the sauce beautifully as it cooks. It’s all about timing and gentle heat; this ensures that every bite is rich and satisfying.

To elevate the dish even further, I recommend adding a sprinkle of fresh basil right before serving. It adds a burst of color and a refreshing taste that perfectly complements the creaminess of the orzo. This little touch transformed my dish from good to exceptional, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich sun-dried tomato flavor that enhances every bite
Creamy texture that makes it incredibly comforting
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Orzo

Orzo is a unique pasta shaped like grains of rice, which absorbs sauces beautifully. When cooked to al dente, it boasts a slightly firm texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce in this dish. Ensure you follow the package instructions for cooking time, typically around 8-10 minutes, and give it a good stir while it's boiling to prevent sticking. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, consider toasting the orzo in a dry skillet for a few minutes before boiling.

Its small size allows orzo to be versatile, making it suitable for salads, soups, and side dishes. In this creamy sun-dried tomato orzo, the pasta serves as a perfect carrier for the rich sauce and chunky sun-dried tomatoes. If you find orzo difficult to track down, you can substitute it with another small pasta, like ditalini or couscous, though this will slightly alter the final presentation and texture.

The Magic of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated burst of sweetness and umami flavor to the dish. Their chewy texture adds a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the sauce. You can use either oil-packed or dry sun-dried tomatoes; however, if using dry, soak them in warm water for 15-20 minutes to soften before incorporating them into the dish. Their vibrant red color not only enhances visual appeal but also serves to elevate the overall taste experience.

For added depth, consider experimenting with flavored versions of sun-dried tomatoes, such as those marinated in herbs or garlic. Just be mindful to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe, as these varieties can be more seasoned. Additionally, if you have extra sun-dried tomatoes on hand, toss them into salads or use them in sandwich spreads for a delicious cross-utilization of ingredients.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy sun-dried tomato orzo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, be sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. A quick tip: if you plan to reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess, as the sauce may thicken in the fridge. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze this orzo dish for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just a friendly reminder: creamy pasta dishes can sometimes separate when frozen, so be prepared to give it a good stir and adjust with a bit more cream or broth to achieve the desired consistency when reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to check that you have everything on hand!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked orzo to the pot with the sauce. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or spinach into the orzo before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy sun-dried tomato orzo can stand alone as a delicious main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, while a side of garlic bread can provide a satisfying crunch that complements the dish's creaminess. If you're entertaining, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the orzo.

Garnishing the dish with fresh basil not only enhances the presentation but also contributes a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the creaminess. For an additional layer of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving; this brightens the flavors and adds a zesty twist.

Flavor Variations

If you're looking to customize this recipe, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the mix for added nutrients and flavor. These vegetables not only provide a pop of color but also enhance the dish's overall texture and nutritional profile. Cook them in the same pan after sautéing the garlic to infuse their flavors into the sauce.

For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to the creamy orzo. This allows you to create a complete meal in one pot, making it perfect for busy nights. Furthermore, swapping out the Parmesan for feta cheese creates a tangy twist that complements the sun-dried tomatoes superbly, offering a different flavor experience each time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the orzo with any small pasta shape, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the orzo just before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

→ What can I serve with this orzo?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.