Garlic Parmesan Orzo w/ Meatballs

Creamy, cheesy orzo paired with juicy, homemade meatballs

This garlic parmesan orzo with meatballs is the definition of comfort food. The orzo is rich, creamy, and packed with garlic and parmesan flavor, while the meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.

Everything comes together in one pan for an easy, satisfying meal that feels cozy but still elevated.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, restaurant-style orzo

• Juicy, flavorful homemade meatballs

• One-pan friendly

• Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1.5 lb (680 g) lean ground beef

• 1 cup (60 g) ground Texas toast croutons or panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 tablespoon (7 g) salt

• 1/2 tablespoon (3–4 g) paprika

• 1/2 tablespoon (4 g) garlic powder

• 1/2 cup (30 g) fresh parsley

• 1/2 yellow onion

• 4 garlic cloves

• 1 large egg

Orzo

• 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta

• 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 onion, diced

• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth

• 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup (90–100 g) grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

In a blender or food processor, combine onion, garlic, parsley, salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Blend until finely mixed.

In a large bowl, add ground beef, the blended mixture, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until just combined.

Form into golf ball-sized meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook meatballs in two batches, turning occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Start the Orzo

In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt butter over medium heat.

Add garlic and diced onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.

4. Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast it and enhance flavor.

5. Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Uncover and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Finish the Dish

Stir in salt, Worcestershire sauce, and grated parmesan until creamy and smooth.

Return the meatballs to the pan and gently mix or nestle them into the orzo.

Serve

Top with additional parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overmix the meatballs to keep them tender

• Toasting the orzo adds extra depth of flavor

• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

• Adjust cream or broth if needed for desired consistency

Final Thoughts

This garlic parmesan orzo with meatballs is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make any night of the week.