Veggie Orzo with Broccoli, Carrots, and Cream Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Veggie Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender vegetables and cheesy goodness. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a wholesome family meal. This recipe is especially great for introducing toddlers to new flavors and textures.

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 broccoli, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-high heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the broth by the end.
4. Step 4: Once the orzo is tender and broth mostly absorbed, stir in cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
5. Step 5: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as is or serve with grilled chicken or fish for extra protein.

Tips & Variations

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Swap parmesan with pecorino or asiago for a different cheesy flavor.
• Include other finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Storage

Store leftover Veggie Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous or small elbows work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for toddlers?

Absolutely. The vegetables are soft and the dish is creamy, making it easy for little ones to eat. Just be sure to let it cool before serving.

Veggie Orzo with Broccoli, Carrots, and Cream Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 113 reviews

A creamy and comforting Veggie Orzo recipe featuring tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and a cheesy blend of cream cheese and parmesan. Perfect as a wholesome side dish or a light vegetarian main, this dish cooks up quickly on the stovetop and is flavorful enough to pair well with your favorite protein.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

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

Main 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 finely shred the carrots to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant, building a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat slightly and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the orzo to absorb the broth and become tender.
4. Incorporate Cheeses: Once the orzo is cooked and most of the broth is absorbed, reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy and rich texture.
5. Serve: Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier version and to control salt levels.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• You can add other vegetables such as peas or zucchini for variety.
• If cream cheese is not available, substitute with mascarpone or a mild soft cheese.
• Adjust cooking time if substituting orzo with another small pasta.

Keywords: Veggie Orzo, creamy pasta, broccoli pasta, easy stovetop recipe, vegetarian pasta, kid-friendly dinner