Cheesy Orzo Pasta Recipe

Name: Cheesy Orzo Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken broth; 3 cups water; 1 1/2 cups orzo; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste); 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 – 1/2 cups colby jack cheese (grated)

Jack Ellison

Update : January 18, 2026

A bowl of cheesy orzo pasta with melted cheese and herbs garnishing the top

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Orzo Pasta is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend dinner. The creamy cheese combined with tender orzo creates a delightful texture, while the hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist. This recipe is not only delicious but also allows for easy customization, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

How to Make Cheesy Orzo Pasta

Ingredients:

2 cups chicken broth
3 cups water
1 1/2 cup orzo
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
1 – 1/2 cups colby jack cheese (grated)

Directions:

Add chicken broth and water to a medium saucepan.
Cover and bring to a boil.
Add orzo and let it simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until cooked al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Drain the orzo and return it to the pan, but remove it from heat.
Add butter, salt, pepper, a little lemon zest, and the cheese. Gently stir to combine. The cheese will take a minute to fully melt.
Add splashes of the reserved pasta water to thin out and make the consistency creamier.
Taste and add any additional salt, pepper, or lemon zest if needed.
Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Orzo Pasta

You can serve Cheesy Orzo Pasta as a main dish or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top, like parsley or basil, before serving. This will enhance the flavor and make the dish look even more appealing.

How to Store Cheesy Orzo Pasta

To store leftover Cheesy Orzo Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a little more liquid to regain the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Cheesy Orzo Pasta

Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps in adjusting the creaminess of the dish.
Use your favorite cheese to change up the flavor.
For added nutrition, mix in some cooked vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Another variation is to incorporate different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning, to enhance the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Cheesy Orzo Pasta is great for meal prep. Just make sure to store it properly and reheat it when ready to eat.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free orzo or a gluten-free pasta alternative to make this dish gluten-free. Just check the cooking instructions for the pasta you choose.