Creamy Cottage Cheese and Parmesan Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This creamy cottage cheese orzo is a delightful and comforting dish that comes together quickly. Combining the smooth richness of cottage cheese and Parmesan with tender orzo pasta makes a perfect weeknight meal or side dish. It’s simple, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors.

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 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese, 1 cup finely grated Parmesan, 2 large eggs, and a generous pinch each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper in a food processor or blender. Purée until very smooth and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, 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 prepared cottage cheese mixture until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh note.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream at the end.

Storage

Store any 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 needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese instead of whole milk?

Yes, but whole milk cottage cheese will yield a richer, creamier texture. Low-fat versions may result in a slightly less creamy dish.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can mix the cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper thoroughly by hand or with a whisk, though the texture might be a bit less smooth.

Creamy Cottage Cheese and Parmesan Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 128 reviews

This creamy cottage cheese orzo is a comforting and cheesy pasta dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Combining smooth cottage cheese, Parmesan, and eggs with tender orzo cooked in flavorful broth creates a rich and velvety texture that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 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, a heavy pinch
• Freshly ground black pepper, a heavy pinch

Orzo

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mini food processor or blender, combine 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese, 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, 2 large eggs, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Purée the mixture until it is very smooth. Set aside for later use.
2. Cook the Orzo: In a medium pot, add 1 pound dried orzo pasta and 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth. Place the pot over medium-high heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid is fully absorbed and the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente), about 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Combine and Finish the Dish: Remove the pot from heat and thoroughly stir in the prepared cottage cheese mixture until fully combined with the orzo. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy orzo.

Notes

• You can use either vegetable or chicken broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
• For a richer flavor, use full-fat cottage cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Make sure not to overcook the orzo to maintain a pleasant al dente texture.
• This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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