50+ Easy and Hearty Winter Orzo Recipes to Keep You Warm

As the winter months settle in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of orzo to chase away the chill.

This small pasta, shaped like grains of rice, is incredibly versatile, easily soaking up flavors and complementing a variety of ingredients.

Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy dish, a hearty soup, or a light salad, orzo can be the star of the show.

In this blog, we’ll explore over 50 delightful winter orzo recipes that are perfect for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply warming up after a long day.

From savory one-pot meals to refreshing salads, these recipes will inspire you to make the most of this delicious pasta throughout the season.

Get ready to discover new family favorites and elevate your winter cooking game with these delicious orzo dishes!

50+ Easy and Hearty Winter Orzo Recipes to Keep You Warm

As you embrace the winter season, let these 50+ orzo recipes warm your kitchen and fill your home with comforting aromas.

From rich and creamy to light and zesty, orzo is the perfect canvas for a variety of flavors and textures.

Each recipe offers a unique take on this versatile pasta, allowing you to enjoy it in countless ways.

So, gather your loved ones around the table, and create memorable meals together with these delightful winter orzo dishes.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, orzo will surely become a go-to staple in your winter cooking repertoire.

Winter Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and Feta

This Winter Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and Feta is a warm, comforting dish packed with seasonal vegetables and tangy feta cheese. The roasting process enhances the flavors of the vegetables, while the orzo provides a hearty, satisfying base. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or as a side dish for a winter dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 cups butternut squash, diced
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat.
2. Roast the vegetables for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked orzo, feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Toss everything together and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

This roasted vegetable orzo dish is perfect for winter as it makes use of seasonal produce and offers a blend of textures and flavors. The tangy feta and fresh lemon juice elevate the dish, giving it a light, zesty touch even on the coldest of days.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Winter Orzo

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Winter Orzo is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. The creamy sauce coats the tender orzo, and the mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the wilted spinach. This dish is both elegant and simple, perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress guests at your next winter gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups spinach, fresh
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well until the orzo is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or thyme, if desired.

This rich and creamy orzo dish will warm you up on a cold winter evening. The combination of mushrooms and spinach provides a healthy, earthy depth to the dish, while the creamy sauce makes it irresistibly comforting.

Winter Citrus and Herb Orzo Salad

This Winter Citrus and Herb Orzo Salad is a refreshing and bright dish perfect for the colder months when citrus fruits are at their peak. It combines the tang of oranges and lemons with fresh herbs and a touch of honey, creating a vibrant contrast to the heartiness of the orzo. This salad works well as a light side dish or even as a lunch on its own.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, orange segments, fresh herbs, and pomegranate seeds.
4. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to combine.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This citrus orzo salad is a delightful contrast to the rich, heavy meals often enjoyed during the winter months. The combination of fresh herbs, sweet oranges, and tart lemon juice brightens up the dish, making it a refreshing option even in the dead of winter.

Lemon Garlic Orzo with Roasted Cauliflower

Lemon Garlic Orzo with Roasted Cauliflower is a flavorful, tangy dish that brings out the warmth of winter through roasted cauliflower and a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. The nuttiness of the roasted cauliflower pairs wonderfully with the lightness of orzo, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender, stirring halfway through.
2. While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roasted cauliflower, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and parsley. Toss everything together and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

The lemon-garlic combination gives this orzo dish a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the roasted cauliflower, making it a delightful winter meal with layers of flavor and texture.

Orzo with Winter Squash and Sage Butter

Orzo with Winter Squash and Sage Butter is a rich and aromatic dish that celebrates the flavors of the colder months. The sweetness of roasted winter squash is beautifully balanced by the earthy, aromatic sage butter, creating a cozy, heartwarming meal that is both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 cups diced winter squash (butternut or acorn)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter
• 8-10 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the butter becomes golden and the sage leaves turn crispy.
4. In a large bowl, toss the orzo with the roasted squash, sage butter, Parmesan, and toasted pine nuts (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or sage leaves if desired.

This orzo dish is a true celebration of winter, with the sweet roasted squash and crispy sage bringing out deep, comforting flavors. It’s a perfect dish for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in by the fire.

Winter Orzo Soup with Kale and White Beans

Winter Orzo Soup with Kale and White Beans is a hearty, nutritious, and soul-warming dish perfect for cold winter days. The orzo adds body to the soup, while the kale and white beans provide fiber and nutrients, making this an ideal meal to fight off the winter chill.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the thyme and rosemary, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetable broth and white beans, bringing the soup to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the kale is wilted.
5. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired. Serve hot.

This orzo soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy winter meal. The earthy flavors of the kale and beans complement the orzo, creating a comforting bowl of soup that will keep you warm all season long.

Herbed Orzo with Winter Roasted Root Vegetables

Herbed Orzo with Winter Roasted Root Vegetables is a hearty dish that brings the best of winter’s root veggies together with tender orzo and fresh herbs. The sweet and earthy flavors of roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets are balanced by the lightness of the orzo, making this a comforting and colorful winter meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup parsnips, peeled and diced
• 1 cup beets, peeled and diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the carrots, parsnips, and beets with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted root vegetables with the cooked orzo. Toss in the fresh parsley, dill, and balsamic vinegar. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

This dish brings out the natural sweetness of winter root vegetables, which contrasts nicely with the freshness of the herbs. The orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors, making this a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for the winter months.

Orzo with Sausage, Kale, and Cannellini Beans

This Orzo with Sausage, Kale, and Cannellini Beans is a cozy, rustic winter dish that’s full of flavor and texture. The hearty Italian sausage and cannellini beans make it filling, while the kale adds a touch of earthiness. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that is both comforting and nutritious for chilly nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the red pepper flakes, cannellini beans, and kale. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the kale is wilted.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the cooked orzo. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

This hearty and warming dish is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. The sausage and beans make it robust, while the kale adds a healthy touch, making this a go-to meal for a nourishing winter dinner.

Orzo with Winter Squash, Sage, and Brown Butter

Orzo with Winter Squash, Sage, and Brown Butter is an indulgent winter recipe that combines the nutty sweetness of roasted winter squash with the deep, rich flavors of brown butter and sage. This dish is decadent yet simple, offering a perfect balance of flavors for a cozy winter night.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 cups cubed winter squash (butternut, acorn, or kabocha)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 tbsp butter
• 8-10 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed winter squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for 3-4 minutes until the butter turns golden brown and the sage becomes crispy.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with the roasted squash, brown butter, crispy sage, and Parmesan. Add toasted nuts if desired for extra crunch.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.

The combination of brown butter and sage adds a deep, nutty flavor to this dish, perfectly complementing the sweet roasted squash. The toasted nuts offer an optional but delightful crunch, making this orzo recipe a perfect indulgence for winter evenings.

Orzo with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pomegranate Seeds

Orzo with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pomegranate Seeds is a winter dish that combines roasted veggies with bursts of sweet-tart pomegranate. This recipe brings together warm, earthy flavors with bright, fresh ingredients, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roasted Brussels sprouts, and pomegranate seeds. Toss with crumbled feta and balsamic glaze.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This dish strikes a balance between savory roasted Brussels sprouts and the sweet burst of pomegranate seeds. The feta adds creaminess, while the balsamic glaze ties all the flavors together, making this a delightful winter meal.

Creamy Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach

Creamy Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly winter nights. The earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach blend beautifully with the creamy, Parmesan-infused orzo, making this meal both indulgent and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if desired.
6. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.

The creamy sauce coats the orzo and vegetables, making each bite rich and flavorful. This dish is an excellent choice when you want something filling yet packed with nutritious vegetables during the colder months.

Orzo with Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese

Orzo with Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese is a savory, tangy dish that brings out the warmth and flavors of roasted red peppers. Combined with creamy goat cheese, this dish is rich, yet light enough to enjoy as a comforting winter meal or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 roasted red peppers (store-bought or homemade), chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes to heat through.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in the crumbled goat cheese, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and serve warm.

The goat cheese melts into the orzo, creating a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the roasted red peppers. The fresh basil and optional pine nuts add freshness and crunch, making this dish both flavorful and comforting during the winter season.

Lemon Orzo with Roasted Broccoli and Garlic

Lemon Orzo with Roasted Broccoli and Garlic is a zesty, vibrant dish that makes the most of simple winter ingredients. The roasted broccoli adds a caramelized richness, while the lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish, making it both light and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli and garlic slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and browned.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with the roasted broccoli and garlic. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

The tangy lemon and savory roasted garlic bring a burst of freshness to this dish, while the Parmesan adds a touch of creaminess. It’s a perfect winter meal that feels light yet satisfying, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.

Winter Orzo Salad with Cranberries and Pecans

This Winter Orzo Salad with Cranberries and Pecans is a sweet and savory dish packed with textures and flavors. The tart dried cranberries and crunchy pecans bring a festive touch, while the orzo and fresh herbs create a well-balanced salad that’s perfect for a winter gathering or a cozy lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh mint or parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the orzo, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad and toss to combine. Add the fresh herbs and mix well.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

This salad’s sweet and nutty flavors complement the chewy texture of the orzo, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and comforting. The combination of dried cranberries and pecans brings a seasonal touch, making it a delightful winter side or main course.

Spiced Orzo with Roasted Carrots and Feta

Spiced Orzo with Roasted Carrots and Feta is a hearty, flavorful dish that highlights the sweetness of roasted carrots and the tanginess of feta. The warm spices add depth, making this dish perfect for cold winter evenings when you want something filling and fragrant.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo with the roasted carrots. Add the crumbled feta, fresh cilantro, and lemon juice. Toss everything together.
4. Serve warm with additional cilantro and feta, if desired.

This dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with warming spices and the creamy tang of feta. The spiced orzo serves as a comforting base, while the fresh cilantro adds a refreshing pop of flavor, making it a delicious and warming winter recipe.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!