Name: Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese; 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 pound orzo pasta; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

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Introduction

This creamy cottage cheese orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender orzo pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish that feels both light and indulgent.

A close-up image of creamy orzo pasta in a pot, showing a single layer of tender, short, rice-shaped pasta coated in a smooth, glossy, pale yellow sauce. The orzo sits evenly spread, appearing soft and slightly shiny with a rich, buttery texture. The pot is metal with a simple rim visible, placed on a white marbled surface with a light beige cloth partially seen at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 pound orzo pasta
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions

Step 1: In a mini food processor or blender, combine 1 cup of whole milk cottage cheese, 1 cup of finely grated Parmesan, 2 large eggs, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Purée the mixture until it is very smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium pot, bring together 1 pound of dried orzo and 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid is fully absorbed and the orzo is al dente, about 12 to 15 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cottage cheese mixture until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, make sure to blend the cheese mixture thoroughly before combining it with the orzo.
Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter vegetarian option.
Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end for a fresh, bright note.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo seems dry to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a single white bowl filled with creamy rice, showing soft and slightly shiny grains that are lightly clumped together, with steam rising gently from the surface. The rice appears smooth and tender, with a pale yellow tint from the creamy sauce. The bowl sits on a light beige cloth, and a wooden spoon rests nearby on the white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese instead of whole milk?

Yes, but using whole milk cottage cheese gives the creamiest texture. Low-fat versions may result in a less rich sauce.

Is it necessary to blend the cheese mixture?

Blending the mixture creates a smooth and creamy sauce that coats the orzo evenly. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step, but the dish won’t be as creamy.