Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo

Name: Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love whipping up this Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo for family gatherings! The rich, creamy flavor paired with ripe tomatoes creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Each spoonful feels indulgent, and the best part is, it comes together in just minutes. I've found that using fresh herbs really elevates the flavor to new heights, making it a favorite at our table. Trust me, it will leave you craving more, and you’ll be the one everyone looks forward to sharing meals with!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:28:08.866Z

When preparing this Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo, I always start by sautéing garlic and onions until they are fragrant. This not only builds a strong foundation of flavor but also enhances the richness of the dish. I’ve found that letting the tomatoes simmer creates a natural sweetness that balances the creaminess perfectly.

To get the texture just right, I recommend cooking the orzo slightly al dente. This way, it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy, leading to a delightful mouthfeel. The addition of fresh basil at the end gives a vibrant burst of flavor that truly completes this comforting meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, dreamy texture that wraps around each orzo piece
Fresh tomato flavor enhanced by aromatic herbs
Quick and easy dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Perfecting the Orzo

Cooking the orzo to al dente is crucial for achieving the right texture in this dish. If overcooked, the pasta can become mushy and lose that delightful bite that complements the creamy sauce. Make sure to taste the orzo a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. You'll know it's ready when it's firm to the bite but not chalky in the center, usually taking around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water; it can help thicken the sauce if needed later.

Using a large pot for boiling the orzo allows the pasta to move freely, preventing sticking. Adding a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water not only flavors the pasta but also enhances the overall taste of the dish. This simple step elevates your orzo from basic to brilliant and ensures that each piece is seasoned perfectly, contributing to the rich flavors of the creamy sauce.

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream is essential for creating that luxurious texture that makes this dish so indulgent. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for a similar richness with fewer calories. However, I highly recommend sticking with heavy cream for the best flavor and mouthfeel. When adding the cream, keep the heat on low to avoid curdling, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes glossy and thickens slightly, usually taking around 3-5 minutes.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika while simmering the sauce. This little addition can give a subtle warmth and depth to the dish without overpowering the tomato and herb flavors. Additionally, if you have some grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on hand, stirring a little into the sauce can add an extra layer of creaminess and umami.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Serving this Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo garnished with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enriches the dish with herbal freshness. For an even more vibrant presentation, consider drizzling a bit of high-quality olive oil over the top before serving. You can also incorporate a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before enjoying - a wonderful contrast to the creaminess that creates a delightful balance.

If you're looking to make this dish a complete meal, try pairing it with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. This dish also plays well as a main course with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have these on hand before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Create Creamy Sauce

Once simmering, reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Orzo and Sauce

Add the cooked orzo to the creamy tomato sauce, mixing well to ensure each piece of pasta is coated.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a hint of acidity.

Ingredient Roles

The orzo in this recipe acts as the star, providing a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. It’s versatile and absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for this creamy tomato base. Opting for whole grain or gluten-free orzo can make this dish more nutritious while keeping that delightful mouthfeel intact.

The diced tomatoes contribute a natural sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the heavy cream. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best result; San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended for their robust flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar while simmering to deepen the sauce's flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy tomato orzo can be made ahead and stored for easy weeknight meals. Prepare the dish as instructed, then allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep or potlucks.

When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. If the sauce has thickened too much, a splash of vegetable broth or water will help bring it back to its original creamy consistency without compromising flavor. For best results, avoid reheating in the microwave as it can lead to uneven heating and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving. You might need to add a little extra broth or cream if it thickens too much.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy orzo pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or grilled vegetables.