Veggie Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This Veggie Orzo recipe is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender vegetables and cheesy goodness. It’s quick to make and perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a tasty toddler-friendly meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
• 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
• 2 tsp garlic (minced)
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the chicken broth by the time it’s done cooking. Add more chicken broth if needed to finish cooking the orzo.
4. Step 4: Once the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the dish is creamy.
5. Step 5: Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious as is, or you can pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
• Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for extra freshness.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and parmesan to reduce calories without losing flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Veggie Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, or small shells can be substituted. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for toddlers?

Yes, the ingredients are mild and nutritious. Just be sure to let the dish cool sufficiently before serving to young children.

Veggie Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 63 reviews

A creamy and comforting Veggie Orzo made with tender broccoli, shredded carrots, garlic, and cheesy goodness. This simple stovetop recipe combines sautéed vegetables with orzo pasta cooked in flavorful chicken broth, finished with cream cheese and parmesan for a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious toddler-friendly lunch.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
• 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
• 2 tsp garlic (minced)

Other Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely to ensure even cooking and easy eating for toddlers.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Cook Orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the broth; add more broth if needed to ensure the pasta finishes cooking evenly.
4. Add Cheeses: Once the orzo is tender and broth mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt and the dish becomes creamy.
5. Serve: Let the Veggie Orzo cool slightly before serving, making it safe and enjoyable for toddlers. Optionally, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
• For a vegan version, replace cream cheese and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.
• Ensure the orzo is cooked until tender but not mushy to maintain texture balance.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a heartier meal.

Keywords: Veggie Orzo, creamy orzo, easy dinner, toddler-friendly recipe, sautéed vegetables, quick pasta dish, one-pot meal