Description

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese. This easy one-pot recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze while delivering a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Each creamy bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that brings joy to the table, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add orzo to the pot along with vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for about 8 minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid but remains slightly al dente.
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add fresh broccoli florets to the pot.
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 410
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, toast the orzo lightly before adding liquids. - Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or kale for variety. - Try using different cheeses like gouda for a unique twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; add broth when reheating for creaminess.