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, you’re in for a treat! This Veggie Orzo recipe 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. Let’s dive into this creamy, veggie-packed delight that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

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 flavor that even picky eaters will enjoy!
• Perfect for dinner ideas for family with toddler or as a side dish.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful Veggie Orzo, you’ll 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 get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Veggie Orzo:

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 a creamy garlic pasta, add a bit more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream.
• For a little extra flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• This dish can easily be made in an Instant Pot for a quick meal option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

How to Serve

Serving this Veggie Orzo is a breeze! Here are some ideas:

• Serve it as a main dish for a quick family dinner.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
• Use it as a side dish for your favorite protein.
• It’s also a fantastic option for easy lunch ideas picky eaters—just pack it in a thermos!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Veggie Orzo is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if needed.
• You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy Veggie Orzo that your kids will love, ready in just 15 minutes. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of weeknight dinner ideas and a great way to sneak in those veggies for picky eaters. 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 treat!