How to Make Veggie Orzo Kids Love in 15 Minutes

Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that your kids will actually love? Well, look no further! This Veggie Orzo is not only packed with nutrients but also comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is one of my favorite easy pasta recipes that the whole family can enjoy. Trust me, your little ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Packed with veggies, making it a great choice for Easy Veggie Meals For Kids.
• Versatile enough to pair with proteins for a complete meal.
• Kid-approved and delicious, ensuring no leftovers!
• Perfect for dinner ideas for family with toddler or as toddler dinner sides.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful Veggie Orzo, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
• 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
• 2 tsp garlic (minced)
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this creamy, veggie-packed dish:

1. Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely.
2. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
3. Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the chicken broth by the time it’s done cooking.
4. Once the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the dish is creamy.
5. Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving to your toddler. It’s delicious as is, or you can pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to make your Veggie Orzo even better:

• Feel free to swap in any veggies your kids love! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be great additions.
• If you want to make this dish even creamier, add a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream.
• For a little extra flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• This dish can easily be made in an Instant Pot for a quick meal option!

How to Serve

This Veggie Orzo is a fantastic standalone dish, but it can also be served alongside:

• Grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost.
• A fresh garden salad for added crunch and nutrients.
• Garlic bread for a comforting touch.

It’s a great option for easy lunch ideas picky eaters will enjoy, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the Veggie Orzo and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. This makes it a perfect choice for dinner for two year old or as veggies for picky kids.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this Veggie Orzo today and watch your kids fall in love with their veggies! And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or Moist Chocolate Cake for a delightful dessert. Happy cooking!