A creamy, cheesy orzo is the perfect comforting side dish that's quick to make and full of flavor. It’s a great way to add a rich, satisfying touch to any meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time1 hr
Difficulty
Hard
Chef Tips
Use low heat when adding the cheese to avoid curdling the sauce.
Stir the orzo frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Ingredients
0/15
Why This Recipe Is So Tasty
This dish combines tender orzo pasta with a rich, creamy sauce and melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something cozy without a lot of effort.
Step 1
Warm your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a pot, then add the orzo and cook it for about 7 minutes until it’s just about tender. Drain any extra liquid if needed and transfer the orzo to a large bowl.
Step 2
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onion and mushrooms until they’re nice and soft, which should take around 7 minutes. Pour in the Marsala wine and let it simmer until it’s reduced by about half, anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes. Stir this flavorful mushroom mixture into the orzo.
Step 3
Add the peas, cream, fontina, mozzarella, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to the orzo and mushroom mix. Give everything a good stir to combine, then spread it evenly in the baking dish.
Step 4
In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and thyme. Sprinkle this topping over the orzo mixture. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs turn a lovely golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
165
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Ideas For Family Meals
Serve this creamy dish alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a complete meal.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess without drying out the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works well as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Use vegetable broth and omit the Marsala wine or replace it with a mushroom broth for extra flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?
You can skip baking and serve it immediately after mixing, but the breadcrumb topping won’t be crispy.
What can I substitute for Marsala wine?
Use dry white wine or grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar as a non-alcoholic alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar can be used instead of fontina and mozzarella.
Is it okay to use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Fresh peas work fine; just add them at the same step as frozen peas without thawing.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake it just before serving.
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