Description

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo & Broth

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Fats

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
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 stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta, enhancing its flavor.
Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the broccoli florets. Cover the pot and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and the cheese has melted completely.
Season & Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy broccoli cheddar orzo!

Notes

You can use either vegetable or chicken broth based on your preference or dietary needs.
Fresh or frozen broccoli works equally well in this recipe.
For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the dish may be less creamy.
To make it vegetarian, ensure to use vegetable broth and avoid chicken broth.
If you want a thicker sauce, add the cheese gradually and stir well to achieve desired consistency.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

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

Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, one pot meal, creamy pasta, easy dinner, vegetarian recipe, stovetop pasta, quick comfort food