Veggie Orzo for Kids Recipe

Introduction

This Veggie Orzo recipe is a simple, creamy dish perfect for kids. Packed with tender vegetables and cheesy goodness, it’s both nutritious and comforting. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your child’s meal while keeping flavors mild and appealing.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the broth by the time it’s done.
4. Step 4: Once the orzo is tender and the broth mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
5. Step 5: Let the Veggie Orzo cool slightly before serving. It works well on its own or alongside grilled chicken or fish for extra protein.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
• Use mild cheeses like mozzarella if parmesan is too strong for your child’s taste.
• Add finely chopped spinach or peas for extra greens and color.
• To make it dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and parmesan with your favorite plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to keep the texture pleasant for kids.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like small shells or mini macaroni can work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for toddlers just starting solids?

This dish is soft and mild, making it great for toddlers who can handle small pieces of cooked vegetables and pasta. Always ensure the texture is appropriate and consult with your pediatrician if unsure.

Veggie Orzo for Kids Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 55 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy and kid-friendly Veggie Orzo recipe packed with broccoli, carrots, and cheesy goodness. This comforting dish is perfect for toddlers and easy to prepare on the stovetop, combining tender orzo pasta with healthy vegetables and a rich blend of cream cheese and parmesan.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, finely shredded
• 2 tsp garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare vegetables: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the orzo.
2. Sauté vegetables: 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 and release their aroma, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
3. Cook orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the chicken broth.
4. Add cheeses and stir: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt completely and the dish becomes creamy and rich in texture.
5. Serve: Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving, making it suitable for toddlers. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, although this version includes chicken broth as per the original recipe.
• Ensure the orzo is cooked until tender to create a soft texture suitable for kids.
• Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like peas or zucchini for variety.
• Adjust cheese quantities based on preference or dietary restrictions.
• For a dairy-free version, omit cream cheese and parmesan or use plant-based alternatives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: veggie orzo, kid-friendly orzo, creamy orzo with vegetables, toddler meals, easy stovetop dinner, broccoli orzo, cheesy orzo