One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This one-pot broccoli cheese orzo is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli, it comes together in just 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Step 4: Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
5. Step 5: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste, mix well, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep this dish vegetarian.
• Add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein and heartiness.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
• Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of broth or cream if the mixture has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it a minute or two earlier to give it time to thaw and cook through while the orzo simmers.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the cheddar cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as vegan cheese and coconut cream, to make it dairy-free.

One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 70 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe is a quick and simple comfort meal that combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a deliciously cheesy, satisfying dish cooked all in one skillet.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
2. Sauté onion and garlic. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become softened and fragrant, forming a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Add orzo, broth, and broccoli. Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer, ensuring the orzo cooks evenly and the broccoli softens.
4. Cook the orzo and broccoli. Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add cheese and cream. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream, allowing the cheese to melt and combine with the cream to create a rich, creamy sauce.
6. Season and serve. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mix well, and serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or nutmeg when adding the cheese and cream.
• Be careful not to overcook the broccoli to keep its bright green color and slight crunch.
• Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: one pot orzo, broccoli cheese orzo, quick dinner, one skillet pasta, easy comfort food, creamy orzo, weeknight meal