30-Minute Veggie Orzo – Simple, Cozy Weeknight Dinner
Colorful, cozy, and kid-friendly! This easy Veggie Orzo is a quick, nutritious meal packed with tender veggies and creamy pasta. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or served with your favorite protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, finely shredded
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Chop the broccoli into small pieces and finely shred the carrots.
2. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until veggies soften.
3. Add orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. When orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, stir in cream cheese and parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve as-is or pair with grilled chicken or fish.
Notes
Chop vegetables finely for a toddler-friendly texture.
To make it a full meal, stir in cooked chicken, turkey, beans, or extra cheese.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and omit or replace parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Use gluten-free orzo or pasta for a gluten-free version.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/veggie-orzo/