Are you a comfort food lover looking for a new dish to add to your repertoire? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and creamy cheesy orzo recipes that are sure to become instant favorites. From classic combinations like garlic butter and spinach to more adventurous pairings like jalapeños and pepper jack, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a fan of bold and spicy flavors or rich and comforting dishes, these creamy cheesy orzo recipes are sure to hit the spot. So grab your pasta, cheese, and favorite ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Cheesy Orzo with Spinach
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, melted mozzarella cheese, and wilted spinach to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt into the garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine cooked orzo and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Combine the orzo-cheese mixture with the garlic butter-spinach mixture in the skillet. Toss until pasta is well coated.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Cheesy Orzo Bake
Get ready for a comforting casserole that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy orzo. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook the crumbled bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Pour in heavy cream and mix well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
9. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Parmesan Cheesy Orzo
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and creamy Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, sun-dried tomato mixture, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Mushrooms and Thyme
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory dish, featuring tender mushrooms, nutty orzo, and a velvety cheese sauce infused with the warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream, and bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in cooked orzo, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Cheesy Orzo with Grilled Chicken
A vibrant and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the warmth of herbs, and the creaminess of cheese with juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and stir until coated with the cheesy mixture.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and serve over the orzo.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cheesy Orzo with Jalapeños and Pepper Jack
Add a kick to your pasta game with this bold and creamy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped jalapeño and sauté for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss with jalapeño mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in grated cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cheesy Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy recipe. Combine the natural sweetness of the peppers with the comforting taste of orzo, cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked orzo, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the orzo mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Cheesy Orzo with Asparagus
Truffle Oil Cheesy Orzo with Asparagus Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of truffle oil and asparagus paired with creamy orzo for a decadent and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Add the cooked asparagus to the orzo mixture and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds a satisfying crunch from toasted breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, cheese sauce, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Cheesy Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes
A delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the flavors of pesto, cheese, and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto sauce and mozzarella cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss with the pesto-cheese-tomato mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Orzo Risotto with Peas and Prosciutto
This creamy orzo risotto combines the comfort of a classic Italian dish with the sweetness of peas and the salty, crispy texture of prosciutto. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked orzo pasta, peas, and prosciutto to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Orzo Casserole
A spicy twist on classic comfort food, this casserole combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the Buffalo wing sauce over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the orzo mixture and drizzle with remaining Buffalo wing sauce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Roasted Garlic and Broccoli
Transform your pasta game with this creamy, garlicky, and nutritious recipe that combines the flavors of roasted garlic, broccoli, and melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low. Add roasted garlic cloves and cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Combine cooked orzo, roasted garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese in a serving dish. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Cheesy Orzo with Feta and Olives
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this creamy, cheesy orzo dish infused with the tanginess of feta cheese and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked orzo, feta cheese, and olives to the skillet. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of creamy pasta, sweet caramelized onions, and nutty Gruyère cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked orzo, caramelized onions, and Gruyère cheese in a baking dish. Pour the cream mixture over the top and stir until well combined.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Gouda Cheesy Orzo with Crispy Sage
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, smoky, and savory dish that combines the richness of smoked Gouda with the earthy flavor of crispy sage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Smoked Gouda cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add cooked orzo and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the orzo mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Smoked Gouda cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Shrimp and Lemon Zest
A flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines the richness of cheese, the sweetness of shrimp, and the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
4. Add garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked orzo and shrimp in the cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Butternut Squash and Sage
This autumnal-inspired pasta dish combines the comforting warmth of cheesy orzo with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all tied together with a hint of earthy sage. A perfect side dish for any fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried sage
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked orzo to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Stir in roasted squash and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Sausage and Kale
A hearty, comforting pasta dish filled with sausage, kale, and a rich cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound orzo pasta
– 1 Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked orzo, sausage mixture, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Orzo with Roasted Red Peppers and Mozzarella
This recipe combines the comfort of orzo pasta with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped red peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with roasted red peppers in a large bowl. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy goodness! This collection of 20 recipes features orzo as the star of the show, paired with an array of delicious cheeses and ingredients. From classic comfort foods like garlic butter and cheddar, to more adventurous combos featuring truffle oil, buffalo chicken, and even shrimp, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple weeknight dinner or a show-stopping casserole, these cheesy orzo recipes are sure to satisfy.
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