Looking for the kind of dish that gives you a warm hug after a long day? Say hello to this Creamy Gorgonzola Orzo with Bacon and Parmesan. It’s rich, decadent, savory, and comes together in one pot. Perfect for chilly nights, indulgent weekends, or anytime you need something truly satisfying.
And the best part? It looks fancy but is actually super simple to make—with just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time. Let’s dive in!
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-creamy without needing heavy cream
- Packed with bold flavor thanks to gorgonzola and bacon
- One pot = easy cleanup
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or guests
Whether you’re using orzo (tiny rice-shaped pasta) or risotto rice (like arborio), this dish turns pantry staples into pure magic.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 350g orzo (or substitute with risotto rice for a creamier, starchier base)
- 130g gorgonzola (crumbled – creamy or dolce works beautifully)
- 25g parmesan (grated – for depth and saltiness)
- 8–10 slices of bacon (smoked or streaky, chopped)
- 1 glass of white wine (about 120ml – optional but adds amazing flavor)
- 750ml broth (vegetable or chicken – warm is best for even cooking)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, crushed walnuts, extra parmesan.
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Crisp the Bacon
Start by cooking your chopped bacon in a large skillet or deep saucepan over medium heat until crispy. This will take about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tip: Leave a tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan for flavor. Discard the rest or save it for roasted veggies later!
2. Deglaze with Wine
To the same pan, pour in your white wine. Scrape up all the flavorful browned bits at the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
No wine? No problem. You can skip this step or use a splash of broth + lemon juice.
3. Add the Orzo & Broth
Pour in the orzo and gradually stir in your broth, about a cup at a time. Stir frequently as the orzo absorbs the liquid. This will take about 10–12 minutes.
If you’re using risotto rice, the cook time may be closer to 18–20 minutes. Keep adding warm broth as it gets absorbed.
4. Melt in the Cheese
Once the orzo is tender and creamy, reduce the heat and stir in the gorgonzola and parmesan until melted and smooth.
The result? A luscious, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of orzo. 😍
5. Finish with Bacon & Garnish
Stir in your crispy bacon or sprinkle it on top for extra crunch. Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives) and more parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.
💡 Customization Tips
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian version: Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
- Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end for a fresh twist.
- Make it nuttier: Top with toasted walnuts or pine nuts for texture.
- Spice it up: A pinch of chili flakes or cracked black pepper balances the richness.
🧂 Flavor Profile Breakdown
This dish is:
- Savory: thanks to the bacon, gorgonzola, and parmesan
- Creamy: from the orzo starch and cheese combo
- Salty with tang: from gorgonzola’s signature sharpness
- Umami-rich: with layers of deep flavor from the wine and broth
🥂 Serving Suggestions
This orzo is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli
- Garlic bread or warm focaccia
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon
❄️ Storing & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of broth or milk and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir often to bring back the creaminess.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Creamy Gorgonzola Orzo with Bacon is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s got all the elegance of a restaurant-quality risotto with half the effort and time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your partner, or a dinner party—this dish never fails to impress.
Ready to try it? Grab your pan and let’s get creamy!
📌 Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with someone who loves cheese as much as you do!