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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

Scale
  • 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

  1. Add chicken broth and water to a medium saucepan.
  2. Cover and bring to a boil.
  3. Add orzo and let it simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until cooked al dente.
  4. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  5. Drain the orzo and return it to the pan but remove from heat.
  6. Add butter, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and the cheese. Gently stir to combine.
  7. Add splashes of the reserved pasta water to thin out and make the consistency more creamy.
  8. Taste and add any additional salt, pepper, or lemon zest.
  9. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Best served warm as a side or main dish. Pairs well with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • 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