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Creamy Cacio e Pepe Orzo with Pecorino Romano Recipe

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4.2 from 34 reviews

Cacio e Pepe Orzo is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of Pecorino Romano cheese with the bold, peppery flavor of black pepper. This recipe transforms simple orzo pasta into a luscious, cheesy one-pot meal with a hint of garlic and onion, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an easy side dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon Black Pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
  • ⅓ Cup Onions, finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon Garlic Paste
  • 2 Cups Dry Orzo
  • 4 Cups Vegetable Broth (add more if needed for creaminess)
  • ½ Cup Pecorino Romano Cheese (Parmesan can be used as a substitute)
  • ¼ Teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the garlic paste and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Orzo and Pepper: Sprinkle the black pepper over the sautéed aromatics and stir well. Add the dry orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the oil and pepper mixture.
  3. Cook Orzo in Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook the orzo, stirring frequently, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the pasta is tender but still al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Add additional broth if you prefer a creamier consistency.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Season: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the Pecorino Romano cheese, allowing it to melt and form a creamy sauce coating the orzo. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  5. Serve: Serve the Cacio e Pepe Orzo warm as a main dish or side. Garnish with extra black pepper or cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly ground black pepper instead of pre-ground.
  • You can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan cheese for a milder taste.
  • Adjust the amount of vegetable broth to achieve your preferred creaminess.
  • This dish pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables.
  • To add protein, consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/creamy-cacio-e-pepe-orzo-with-pecorino-romano-recipe/