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Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 25 reviews

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and rich cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal cleanup while delivering a luscious, cheesy texture and vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Base 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: 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 1 minute until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and toast it in the pot for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to enhance its nutty flavor.
  3. Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture 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. Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  5. Season & Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and flavorful one-pot meal.

Notes

  • You can use either vegetable or chicken broth depending on your dietary preference.
  • Frozen broccoli florets work just as well as fresh; just ensure they are thawed slightly before adding.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth and ensure the cheddar cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
  • Adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor complexity if desired.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/creamy-one-pot-broccoli-cheddar-orzo-recipe/