Best Creamy Parmesan Orzo With Bacon Recipes

SPINACH GARLIC PARMESAN ORZO WITH CRISPY BACON

Steps:

• Add bacon to a large skillet or pan and place over medium heat, cook bacon on both sides until crispy and golden brown. If the pan starts to smoke at any point, simply lower the heat. I always cook my bacon on medium low heat. Once bacon is done, blot with a paper towel to absorb excess grease, then chop into bite sized pieces and set aside.
• While the bacon is cooking, place a large pot of water over high heat and add in a generous amount of salt. Once water boils, stir in the orzo and cook until al dente about 7-9 minutes. Once orzo is done cooking, drain pasta and set aside in the colander. Make sure to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
• Next add 1 tablespoon butter to the same pot you cooked the pasta in and place over medium heat. Once butter is melted, add in minced garlic, carrot, corn, red bell pepper and saute for 2 minutes.
• Next add in spinach; cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Add the cooked orzo back into the pot and turn the heat to low. Stir in the reserved pasta water, parmesan, garlic powder and red chili pepper flakes.
• Finally, stir in bacon crumbles. Add salt and pepper to taste. I like to add A LOT of black pepper into this dish -- it just gives it a really nice flavor! If you think it needs a little extra parmesan cheese, feel free to stir in 1/4 cup more. Enjoy. Serves 4.

CREAMY PARMESAN ORZO WITH BACON

Steps:

• Cook the bacon in a large saucepan over medium heat until crisp; remove with a slotted spoon (you can drain the bacon fat or leave it).
• Melt 2-3 tablespoons butter, then add in onions and garlic; saute until soft (about 5 minutes).
• Add in the orzo and stir for about 2 minutes.
• Slowly add in the 4-1/2 cups broth; simmer uncovered until the orzo is firm-tender and the broth is absorbed, stirring occasionally (this should take about 7-8 minutes).
• Add in whipping cream and bring to a simmer.
• Mix in Parmesan cheese and thyme, then cooked bacon.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• *NOTE* you can thin with additional broth if desired.

CREAMY PARMESAN ORZO

Steps:

• Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add orzo and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Stir in broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until liquid is absorbed, and orzo is done, about 15 minutes.
• Remove from heat; stir in cheese, basil, salt and pepper. Sprinkle with pine nuts. Serve immediately.