When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a rich and creamy cheesy orzo. This Italian-inspired dish has gained popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why – the combination of tender pasta, savory cheese sauce, and flavorful add-ins is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, these 20 creamy cheesy orzo recipes have got you covered.
From classic combinations like spinach and garlic to more adventurous options like chorizo and black beans, we’ve gathered the best of the best to inspire your next meal. And with a wide range of flavors and textures at your fingertips, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy cheesy orzo and explore some of our favorite recipes for this comforting dish.
Cheesy Orzo with Spinach and Garlic
A creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) orzo pasta
– 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
– 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the garlic, spinach, and olive oil to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Cheesy Orzo Casserole
This Baked Cheesy Orzo Casserole is a hearty, satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy sauce, nutty orzo, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked orzo to the saucepan and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the orzo mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and heavy cream.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the simplicity of orzo with the richness of cheese, all tied together with a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Toss roasted vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
6. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Cheesy Orzo
This recipe combines the creamy richness of parmesan cheese with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon zest, all wrapped up in a delicious orzo pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet; toss to combine with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked orzo pasta, chicken, cheddar cheese, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cheesy Orzo with Jalapeños
Spicy Cheesy Orzo with Jalapeños: A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional pasta dishes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped jalapeños and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in warmed chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines the creaminess of cheese with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the warmed vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Combine the cooked orzo pasta, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Toss until well coated with the tomato sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Mushrooms
A comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. This creamy orzo recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a rich cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Then, stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the mushroom-cheese mixture. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Italian Sausage
Savor the flavors of Italy with this comforting and easy-to-make dish, featuring tender orzo pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a rich blend of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound orzo pasta
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked orzo pasta, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Shrimp and Basil
This recipe combines the creamy richness of orzo pasta, the succulent sweetness of shrimp, and the brightness of fresh basil for a delightful 30-minute meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side; remove from heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked orzo, shrimp, and remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese; stir until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped basil before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Bacon and Peas
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the simplicity of orzo with the richness of cheese, smokiness of bacon, and sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add frozen peas to the same skillet and stir-fry until thawed and tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked orzo, bacon, and pea mixture with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Caramelized Onions
This comforting side dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the sweetness of caramelized onions and a blend of creamy cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked orzo, caramelized onions, and cheese mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with cheddar cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Artichokes and Feta
This creamy pasta dish combines the simplicity of orzo with the bold flavors of artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh artichoke hearts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and artichoke hearts. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked orzo, feta cheese, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Roasted Red Peppers
This comforting side dish combines nutty orzo pasta with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and a generous helping of melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Toss peppers, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine cooked orzo, roasted peppers, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
5. Stir until cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese with al dente orzo for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked orzo and ground beef mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Kale and Parmesan
A creamy and nutritious side dish that combines the comforting flavors of orzo, kale, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in parmesan and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and kale mixture in a serving dish. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Butternut Squash
This autumn-inspired side dish combines the comforting warmth of orzo pasta with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all wrapped up in a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked orzo to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in roasted butternut squash. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Pesto and Mozzarella
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of orzo, the zest of pesto, and the meltiness of mozzarella. Perfect as a main course or as a side to your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and pesto. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked orzo to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
4. Transfer the orzo mixture to a baking dish and top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Corn and Cheddar
This comforting side dish is a perfect blend of al dente orzo pasta, sweet corn, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Combine the cooked orzo, corn mixture, and grated cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Chorizo and Black Beans
This hearty, flavorful pasta dish combines the creamy richness of cheese with the spicy kick of chorizo and the earthy sweetness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and chorizo drippings.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, black bean mixture, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and well combined.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious orzo recipes! This article presents 20 mouth-watering variations that are perfect for dinner. From classic combinations like Cheesy Orzo with Spinach and Garlic to more adventurous options like Spicy Cheesy Orzo with Jalapeños, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or bold and zesty flavors, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the comfort food that is cheesy orzo!
