Skip to main content

Orzo with Ham and Goat Cheese

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This creamy orzo with ham and goat's cheese is a sophisticated take on a pasta bake, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavours. The rice-shaped pasta creates a velvety base that perfectly complements the tangy, melted goat's cheese and the salty bite of the ham. Finishing the dish under the grill provides a delicious golden crust, making it a comforting choice for a quick lunch or an effortless dinner.

As a high-protein option, this dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying. The addition of fresh spring onions adds a subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed seasonal greens for a well-rounded and wholesome homemade meal that the whole family will enjoy.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Orzo with Ham and Goat Cheese

  • 450g orzo (rice-shaped pasta)

  • 230g sliced ham, coarsely chopped (230g )

  • 230g mild soft goat cheese, crumbled

  • 5 spring onions, thinly sliced

How to make Orzo with Ham and Goat Cheese

Preheat grill and lightly oil a flameproof 3-quart shallow baking dish (2 inches deep).

Cook orzo in a 6-quart pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 180ml pasta cooking water, then drain orzo in a colander. Toss hot orzo with remaining ingredients, reserved cooking water, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl until cheese is melted.

Transfer orzo mixture to baking dish and grill 2 inches from heat until lightly browned, about 4 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.