Description
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Orzo recipe is a high-protein, easy one-pot meal that combines tender orzo pasta with a luscious mixture of full-fat cottage cheese, Parmesan, and bright lemon flavors. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner, this dish is both comforting and nutritious, with a hint of garlic and optional red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Pasta
- 2 cups dry orzo pasta
- Salt (for pasta water, as needed)
Dairy and Cheese
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Flavors
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp fine sea salt (plus more for pasta water)
Other
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 2 cups of dry orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the orzo, then set the cooked pasta aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to brown the garlic to preserve its flavor.
- Mix the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and stir in 2 cups of full-fat cottage cheese, 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Mix everything until smooth and creamy, forming a luscious sauce.
- Combine pasta with sauce: Return the cooked orzo to the pot and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta with the creamy cheese mixture. Slowly add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess and consistency.
- Heat through: Continue cooking the combined orzo and sauce mixture over medium-low heat for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to warm it evenly and let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the creamy cottage cheese orzo warm as a delightful, protein-packed meal.
Notes
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- Crushed red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness and color but are optional.
- Ensure garlic is not overcooked to avoid bitterness.
