Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This creamy cottage cheese orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy side. The smooth cottage cheese adds a lovely creaminess without heaviness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
• 1 cup finely grated parmesan
• 2 large eggs
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the cheese mixture by combining the cottage cheese, grated parmesan, eggs, a heavy pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mini food processor or blender. Purée until very smooth and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, bring the orzo and broth to a medium-high heat. Cook, stirring often, until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is al dente, about 12-15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cottage cheese mixture until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For added brightness, stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
• Try using low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
• Substitute part of the cottage cheese with ricotta for an even creamier texture.
• To add a protein boost, top with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of whole milk cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use regular cottage cheese, but whole milk cottage cheese will give you a creamier and richer result.

Is it necessary to use eggs in the cheese mixture?

The eggs help to bind and thicken the sauce, giving it a silky texture, but you can omit them if you prefer a lighter dish, though the consistency may be slightly looser.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 119 reviews

This Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo is a comforting and luscious pasta dish that blends the smoothness of cottage cheese with the richness of Parmesan and eggs. Cooked in flavorful vegetable or chicken broth, the orzo achieves a perfect al dente texture before being combined with a silky cheese mixture, resulting in a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Orzo Pasta

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mini food processor or blender, combine the whole milk cottage cheese, finely grated Parmesan, eggs, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Purée the ingredients until the mixture is very smooth and set it aside for later use.
2. Cook the Orzo: In a medium pot, pour the orzo pasta and add the vegetable or chicken broth. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Stir frequently and cook until the orzo absorbs all the liquid and reaches an al dente texture, about 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Combine and Finish the Dish: Remove the pot from the heat once the orzo is cooked. Stir the prepared cottage cheese mixture thoroughly into the hot orzo until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot for a creamy, cheesy pasta experience.

Notes

• Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Feel free to substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking and ensure even cooking.
• For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Keywords: creamy orzo, cottage cheese pasta, Parmesan orzo, cheesy orzo, easy creamy pasta, Italian pasta dish, vegetarian pasta recipe