Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo

Name: Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium tomatoes, diced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo on lazy weekends. The creamy texture combined with the rich tomato flavor nourishes my soul and brings warmth to my home. I’ve experimented with different ingredients over the years, and I’ve found that adding fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan takes this dish to a whole new level. It’s a simple, comforting meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy Sundays when I want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:52:09.531Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was astonished at how something so simple could taste so indulgent. The creamy orzo absorbs the flavors beautifully, making it incredibly satisfying. One little trick I discovered is to toast the orzo in a bit of olive oil before adding the broth, which enhances its nutty flavor. It’s a technique I now use in all my orzo dishes.

Using fresh tomatoes instead of canned adds a brightness that makes the dish feel vibrant and alive. I often incorporate a splash of lemon juice at the end to elevate the flavors even more. This orzo has become a staple in my home, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, comforting texture that warms the heart
Rich tomato flavor elevated by fresh basil
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Orzo

Orzo is a fantastic choice for this recipe due to its unique texture, similar to rice but with a firm bite that holds up well in creamy dishes. The small pasta absorbs flavors beautifully, meaning each bite will be infused with the rich tomato essence and aromatic herbs. When cooking orzo, it’s essential to watch the timing closely; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, while the right cook ensures it remains al dente and provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce.

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can easily swap orzo with a gluten-free pasta option, such as quinoa or rice-shaped gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions to achieve the best results.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The key to achieving that luscious creamy texture in your tomato orzo lies in using heavy cream. This ingredient not only adds richness but also helps to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes. If you're in need of a lighter version, consider substituting half the heavy cream with a plant-based option like coconut cream or cashew cream, which can bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish without sacrificing too much creaminess.

To ensure the cream blends seamlessly into the dish, add it at a lower heat after the orzo has cooked. This prevents the cream from curdling, allowing it to envelop the pasta beautifully. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the mixture is glossy and slightly thickened, creating an indulgent coating.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Sunday Creamy Tomato Orzo, presentation is key. I love to top mine with a generous sprinkling of freshly torn basil and a shower of grated parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience. For a little extra crunch and texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for a delightful contrast against the creamy sauce.

This dish also pairs wonderfully with various sides. A light arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette can balance out the creaminess, making for a well-rounded meal. Additionally, you can serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tomato Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium tomatoes, diced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the pot and toast for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

Add Cream and Seasoning

Once the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the heavy cream, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until creamy.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious creamy orzo!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after toasting the orzo.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the creamy tomato sauce separately from the orzo. You can cook the base with the aromatics and tomatoes, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, then add the cooked orzo and finish with cream, ensuring a freshly made texture without the stress.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just be aware that the orzo may become softer once frozen and reheated, so consider cooking it fresh and mixing it in just before serving for the best texture.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find that your sauce is too thick after cooking, don't fret! Simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if your sauce turns out too watery, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, enabling excess liquid to evaporate and thicken the dish.

Another potential issue is the flavor being too sharp from the tomatoes. This can happen depending on the ripeness of your tomatoes. If that’s the case, adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the acidity and enhance the overall flavor profile, making this dish creamy and comforting.

Flavor Variations

This recipe serves as a fantastic base for various flavor enhancements. For a smoky twist, consider adding diced cooked bacon or pancetta while sautéing the onions. Alternatively, stir in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach right before serving for added nutrition and flavor. These ingredients can seamlessly elevate the dish and personalize it to your taste preferences.

Herbs are another way to switch up the flavor. While fresh basil brings brightness, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary. Just be cautious with stronger herbs—start with less and adjust according to your liking so they don’t overpower the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes, whole wheat orzo works great and adds a nutty flavor.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but it's best to freeze without the cream. Add cream when reheating.