Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This creamy one pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a comforting and easy meal that comes together quickly. It combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a luscious sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

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. Add the orzo pasta and toast for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar and black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor, or try a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different twist.
• For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Frozen broccoli works well; just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
• To make it lighter, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.

Storage

Store any 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 loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells can work, but cooking times may differ slightly. Adjust accordingly.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking or clumping?

Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot. Toasting the orzo before adding broth also helps keep it separate.

Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 59 reviews

This Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make meal combining tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, all cooked together in a single pot for minimal cleanup. With a luscious texture from heavy cream and sharp cheese, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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

Aromatics & Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Freshly ground black pepper
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent, releasing its sweetness and flavor.
2. Add Garlic & Toast Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the orzo pasta and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to enhance its nutty flavor.
3. Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, add the broccoli florets, cover the pot, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
4. Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and velvety.
5. Season & Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish with extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, cheesy meal.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the texture will be less rich.
• Fresh broccoli works best but frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative; just ensure to thaw slightly before adding.
• Toast the orzo carefully to avoid burning, stirring constantly during that step.
• This dish reheats well, but add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.

Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, one pot dinner, creamy orzo recipe, easy dinner, vegetarian pasta dish