Description
Veggie Orzo is a creamy and comforting pasta dish featuring tender orzo, sautéed broccoli and shredded carrots, all brought together with a blend of cream cheese and parmesan. This quick stovetop recipe is perfect for a nutritious toddler-friendly meal or a simple side to pair with grilled proteins.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, finely shredded
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
Pantry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
Dairy
- 1 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots to ensure even cooking and a pleasing texture for toddlers.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, which helps develop flavor and soften the veggies.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-high and simmer, stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Add extra broth if needed to ensure the orzo finishes cooking without drying out.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese once the orzo is tender. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy texture that binds the dish together.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving, especially if serving to toddlers. The dish can also be paired with grilled chicken or fish for added protein, making it a versatile meal option.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
- Add freshly cracked black pepper or herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- The recipe can be doubled for meal prep and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- For a vegan variation, replace cream cheese and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
- Ensure the dish is cooled appropriately before serving to toddlers to avoid burns.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: veggie orzo, creamy orzo, toddler recipe, broccoli and carrot pasta, easy stovetop dinner, creamy vegetable pasta
