Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together quickly in a single pot.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and toast for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then add the broccoli florets. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
4. Step 4: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a sharper flavor, try using a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein and flavor.
• Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice if avoiding gluten.
• Fresh broccoli adds a bit more texture, but frozen works well and is convenient.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, mild or sharp cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella can work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will vary.

Is it necessary to toast the orzo before cooking?

Toasting the orzo in oil and garlic enhances its nutty flavor and improves the final dish, but you can skip this step if short on time.

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 191 reviews

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, all cooked together in a single pot for easy cleanup. The addition of heavy cream creates a rich, velvety sauce, making it a perfect quick weeknight meal or cozy lunch option.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Dairy

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Aromatics & Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, releasing their sweetness and softening the texture.
2. Add Garlic & Toast Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and to enhance its nutty flavor.
3. Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and add the broccoli florets. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and the broccoli becomes tender.
4. Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth, coating the orzo and broccoli.
5. Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting and creamy one-pot meal!

Notes

• Use vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian, or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Frozen broccoli can be used but adjust cooking time to ensure it is tender.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the dish will be less creamy.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture can enhance the flavor profile.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in a microwave.

Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, One-Pot Meal, Creamy Pasta, Quick Dinner, Vegetarian Pasta