Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Orzo Pasta is a delicious and easy dish that anyone can make. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for families, busy weeknights, or when you just want a quick yet satisfying meal. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen!
How to Make Cheesy Orzo Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 1 1/2 cup orzo
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 – 1/2 cups colby jack cheese (grated)
Directions:
- Add chicken broth and water to a medium saucepan.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and let it simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until cooked al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Drain the orzo and return it to the pan but remove from heat.
- Add butter, salt, pepper, a little lemon zest, and the cheese. Gently stir to combine—the cheese will take a minute to fully melt.
- Add splashes of the reserved pasta water to thin out and make the consistency more creamy.
- Taste and add any additional salt, pepper, or lemon zest.
- Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Orzo Pasta
Cheesy Orzo Pasta is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Sprinkle some extra cheese or herbs on top for added flavor!
How to Store Cheesy Orzo Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the Cheesy Orzo Pasta cool down, then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat it again, you can reheat it on the stove with a little splash of water or chicken broth to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Cheesy Orzo Pasta
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
- Don’t overcook the orzo; it should be al dente so it holds its shape.
- You can mix in some cooked veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese in this recipe. Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of different cheeses. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes!
FAQs
1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
2. What can I add to make this dish more filling?
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans for added protein.
3. Can I freeze Cheesy Orzo Pasta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just store it in a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about a month. Reheat it on the stove with a little added liquid.
Cheesy Orzo Pasta
A comforting and creamy cheesy orzo pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1–1/2 cups colby jack cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Add chicken broth and water to a medium saucepan.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and let it simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until cooked al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Drain the orzo and return it to the pan but remove from heat.
- Add butter, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and the cheese. Gently stir to combine.
- Add splashes of the reserved pasta water to thin out and make the consistency more creamy.
- Taste and add any additional salt, pepper, or lemon zest.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Best served warm as a side or main dish. Pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: pasta, comfort food, quick meal, cheesy dish, orzo
