Orzo substitutes
Orzo substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Rice
Same amount as the orzo
Similar grain with different source.
The best substitutes for orzo are rice, pearl couscous, or acini de pepe, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- soups
Updated 17 Sep 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of orzo | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ricesoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Pearl couscoussoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Acini de pepesoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Pastinasoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Risonisoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Quinoasoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Rice
different taste, similar texture
Similar grain with different source.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different source, similar texture.
Pearl couscous
different taste, similar texture
Similar grain with different source.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different source, similar texture.
Acini de pepe
similar taste and texture
Similar pasta with different shape.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different shape, similar size.
Pastina
similar taste and texture
Similar pasta with different shape.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different shape, similar size.
Risoni
similar taste and texture
Similar pasta with different shape.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different shape, similar size.
Quinoa
different taste, similar texture
Similar grain with different source.
- Best for
- soups, pilafs, salads, casseroles
Different source, similar texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, rice is a good substitute for orzo. It has a different flavor but similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between orzo and rice?
Orzo is rice-shaped pasta made from wheat, while rice is a grain. Both have similar texture but different sources and flavors.
Can I use pearl couscous instead of orzo?
Yes, pearl couscous can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
Why is orzo so popular in soups?
Orzo is popular because it adds rice-like texture and is good for soups and pilafs.
Tips for substituting orzo
6 tips- Orzo adds rice-like texture to dishes
- Orzo can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Orzo pairs well with vegetables, herbs, and broths
- Orzo works well in soups, pilafs, and salads
- Orzo can be used to make pasta salad and minestrone
- Store orzo in a cool, dry place