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! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Veggie Orzo, a creamy and nutritious dish that’s perfect for toddlers and the whole family. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal that’s not only packed with veggies but also incredibly satisfying. Trust me, this is one of those easy pasta recipes that will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Loaded with nutritious veggies that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
• Perfect for busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners.
• Can be made ahead and stored for easy lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

To make 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 dive into the steps to create this delicious Veggie Orzo:

1. Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots.
2. In a medium pot, heat the 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 ensure your Veggie Orzo turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to swap in any veggies your kids love! Zucchini or peas 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 recipe is also great for meal prep! Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy lunches or easy lunch ideas picky eaters will enjoy.

How to Serve

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

• Serve it as a main dish for a dinner for two year old or as a side dish for the whole family.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Top with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
• This dish also makes a fantastic option for toddler dinner sides!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re like me and love to plan ahead, you’ll be happy to know that this Veggie Orzo can be made in advance! 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 broth or water to loosen it up.
• This dish can also be frozen! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

So there you have it! A delicious, creamy Veggie Orzo that your kids will love, ready in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner ideas for family with toddler that are both nutritious and tasty. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! 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 treat!