Red Lobster Orzo Rice: Price, Calories & Easy Copycat Recipe
By Alex Rivera, Head of Menu Research | Prices Verified September 2026 Against the Red Lobster App.
Red Lobster orzo rice is a soft, savory side that pairs well with shrimp and fish. Official listings show $3.49 to $4.49 and 310 calories per serving. However, prices change by location, so check your local restaurant first. This guide explains what orzo rice is, how it compares with real rice, and how to make a copycat at home. Plus, you will find nutrition notes, smart pairings, and answers to common questions.
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Menu category | Soups and Sides |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Price | $3.49 to $4.49 on official listings (varies by location) |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Calories | 310 per serving (official) |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Fat, carbs, protein | About 6g, 57g, 6g (third-party estimate) |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Food type | Rice-shaped pasta, also called risoni |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Gluten | Contains wheat, not gluten-free |
| Red Lobster Orzo Rice | Common pairing | Grilled shrimp skewers (third party menu listings) |
Visit Lobster Price Guide for every other Red Lobster menu and price.
Red Lobster Orzo Rice All Items With Pictures
Red Lobster sells orzo rice as a single side and as a family side. The single side costs $3.49 to $4.49 and has 310 calories on the official menu.
| Item | Serving | Price (estimated) | Calories |
| Orzo Rice | Single side | $3.49 to $4.49 (official, by location) | 310 (official) |
| Family Side of Orzo Rice | Shared portion | Check your local menu | Not confirmed |
| Grilled Shrimp Skewers over orzo rice | Entree with orzo rice | Check your local menu | Not confirmed |
What Is Red Lobster Orzo Rice?
Red Lobster orzo rice is a warm side dish from the Soups and Sides menu. Despite the name, it is a rice-shaped pasta rather than real rice.
The small grains cook soft and smooth, and they soak up sauces well. Guests often choose it beside shrimp, salmon, or steak. It also makes a gentle contrast to garlic and butter flavors.
Is Orzo a Rice or a Pasta?
Orzo is a pasta, not a rice. Makers traditionally use durum wheat semolina, and the shape simply resembles large rice grains.
People also call it risoni, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. Because it is wheat-based, it contains gluten.
The phrase “orzo rice” can mean two things. First, it can mean the plain pasta. Second, it can mean a pilaf that cooks toasted orzo together with real rice. Red Lobster uses the name for its side dish, so check the allergen guide for exact ingredients.
Red Lobster Orzo Rice Price
Official Red Lobster listings show orzo rice at $3.49 and $4.49, depending on location and when you check. Either price sits in line with other simple sides on the Soups and Sides menu.
However, restaurants set prices by location, and delivery apps often add markup. So your final cost may differ from the official figure.
Many entrees include a choice of side, so orzo rice may cost nothing extra. Still, extra sides add to your bill. Next, check the deals and specials page for current savings. You can also join Red Lobster rewards to earn perks on future visits.
Orzo Rice Calories and Nutrition
Red Lobster orzo rice has 310 calories per serving, according to the official menu. Third-party databases add the macros below, so treat them as estimates.
| Nutrient | Amount | Source |
| Calories | 310 | Official |
| Total fat | About 6g | Third party estimate |
| Carbohydrates | About 57g | Third party estimate |
| Protein | About 6g | Third party estimate |
Saturated fat, fiber, sugar, and sodium were not available in the sources we checked. Therefore, review the official nutrition guide before you plan a strict diet. Our nutrition guide also helps you build a meal.
Is Orzo Rice Healthy?
Orzo rice is mostly carbohydrates, which makes it a filling energy source. It works best as a measured portion beside lean protein and vegetables.
You can compare orzo and rice nutrition on USDA FoodData Central. Pair it with a green side, like a salad or broccoli, for balance.
Is Orzo Rice Gluten Free?
No. Orzo is made from wheat, so Red Lobster orzo rice contains gluten. Always confirm with the official allergen guide before you order.
Our gluten-free menu and ingredients, and allergens pages can help you plan safer choices.
Orzo vs Rice: What Is the Difference?
Orzo and rice look alike, but they differ in type, texture, and cook time. This table shows the main points.
| Feature | Orzo | White rice |
| Category | Wheat-based pasta | Whole cereal grain |
| Gluten free | No | Yes, naturally |
| Texture | Soft, smooth, slightly creamy | Light, fluffy, slightly chewy |
| Typical cook time | 8-10 minutes | 15-20 minutes |
Orzo Rice Recipe (Red Lobster Style)
Red Lobster does not publish its recipe, so this copycat is an estimate. It follows a classic Turkish style pilaf, called sehriyeli pilav. Toasting the orzo gives a nutty, golden flavor.
Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Serves: 5.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, rinsed well
- 1/2 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, or a mix of butter and olive oil
- 2 cups hot chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt, adjusted to the broth
Steps
- Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the orzo and stir until it turns deep golden brown. Watch it closely so it does not burn.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir for 2 minutes to coat the grains.
- Pour in the hot broth and salt, then bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 11-12 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Place a clean towel under the lid and rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro tips: Do not skip the rest, because the towel absorbs steam and prevents sogginess. Also rinse the rice until the water runs clear for separate, fluffy grains.
How to Boil Orzo
Boiling is the fastest method. Cook orzo in a large pot of salted water for 8-10 minutes. Then drain it well and toss it with butter or olive oil.
Orzo to Water Ratio
For the pilaf method, use about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of liquid per cup of orzo. Rice needs its own share of liquid, as the recipe above shows. Package directions vary, so check yours first. For boiled orzo, a ratio does not matter because you drain the extra water.
How Much Orzo Per Person
Plan on roughly 1/4 to 1/3 cup of dry orzo per side serving. Increase that amount for a main dish. These amounts are estimates, so adjust for appetite.
Orzo in a Rice Cooker
Yes, you can cook orzo in a rice cooker. Toast the orzo in butter first, then add broth and start the cooker. Liquid amounts vary by model, so test a small batch. Check the texture before serving.
Lemon Orzo Rice
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley after cooking. This bright version pairs well with grilled fish and shrimp. Add a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor.
Orzo Substitutes
Out of orzo? Pearl couscous, small pasta like acini di pepe, or regular rice can work. Choose rice or quinoa if you need a gluten free option. Cooking times change with each swap, so follow the package.
What to Pair With Red Lobster Orzo Rice
Orzo rice suits lighter, garlicky, and grilled dishes. For ideas, open the shrimp meals menu and look at skewers and scampi.
Here are a few strong matches:
- Seafood dinners: Browse the dinner menu for salmon, shrimp, and fish entrees.
- Steak and seafood combos: Check the land and sea classics for surf and turf choices.
- Big feasts: The signature feasts offer plenty of sides to mix.
- Greens: Add a vegetable like seasoned broccoli to balance the carbs.
If you want something heartier, explore the pasta and bowls menu for more filling options.
Orzo Rice FAQs
What is orzo rice?
Orzo rice usually means orzo pasta served like rice. It can also mean a pilaf that cooks orzo and rice together. Red Lobster serves it as a warm side dish.
Is orzo a rice or a pasta?
Orzo is a pasta made from durum wheat semolina. It only looks like rice. Because it contains wheat, it also contains gluten.
Is orzo rice gluten free?
No. Orzo is wheat based, so Red Lobster orzo rice contains gluten. Review the official allergen guide before ordering. Our gluten free menu page can help.
How much does Red Lobster orzo rice cost?
Official listings show $3.49 to $4.49. Prices vary by location and ordering method. Delivery apps may charge more. Check your local restaurant for the exact amount.
How many calories are in Red Lobster orzo rice?
The official menu lists 310 calories per serving. Third party sites estimate about 6g fat, 57g carbs, and 6g protein. Use the official calorie figure for planning.
What does orzo rice taste like?
Orzo tastes mild and slightly nutty, with a soft, smooth bite. It absorbs broth, butter, and herbs well. Toasting it first adds deeper flavor.
Is orzo the same as arborio rice?
No. Arborio is a short grain rice used for risotto, while orzo is a wheat pasta. They look somewhat similar but cook differently. Arborio is naturally gluten-free, and orzo is not.
Is orzo any healthier than rice?
It depends on the rice type and your portion. Both are carbohydrate-based. Rice stays naturally gluten-free, and orzo contains wheat. Compare labels or USDA FoodData Central for exact numbers.
How do you cook orzo?
Boil it in salted water for 8-10 minutes and drain. Alternatively, toast it in butter, add broth, cover, and simmer until absorbed. Pilaf style usually takes 12-15 minutes.
What is the orzo to water ratio?
For absorption cooking, use about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of liquid per cup of orzo. Package directions vary, so check yours. When you boil orzo, simply drain the extra water.
Can you cook orzo in a rice cooker?
Yes. Toast the orzo in butter, add broth, and run the cooker. Liquid needs vary by model, so test a small batch first.
How much orzo per person?
Plan on about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of dry orzo per side serving. Use more for a main dish. These amounts are estimates.
What is a good orzo substitute?
Pearl couscous, acini di pepe, or rice all work. For gluten free needs, choose rice or quinoa. Cooking times differ, so follow package directions.
What goes well with orzo rice?
Orzo rice pairs well with grilled shrimp, salmon, steak, and lemon flavors. At Red Lobster, browse the dinner menu for entrees that include a side choice.
What is another name for orzo rice?
Orzo is also called risoni. The phrase “orzo rice” can also describe a rice and orzo pilaf, such as the Turkish dish sehriyeli pilav.
Why use orzo instead of rice?
Orzo cooks faster, at 8-10 minutes versus 15-20 minutes for rice. It also has a softer, creamier texture and absorbs sauces well. However, it contains gluten.
Is Red Lobster Orzo Rice Worth Ordering?
Red Lobster orzo rice is a simple, affordable side at $3.49 to $4.49 and 310 calories on official listings. Technically, it is pasta, so it contains wheat and gluten. Home cooks can make a similar pilaf with orzo, rice, and broth.
Price disclaimer: Prices come from the official Red Lobster website at the time of writing. They may vary by location and change without notice.
