Description
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting dish featuring tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, complemented by vibrant broccoli florets. Quick to prepare in just one pot, it’s both satisfying and simple, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
4 cups Vegetable Broth
1 cup Milk
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
½ teaspoon Black Pepper
¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
1 ½ cups Orzo Pasta
3 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets
2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Salt to taste
Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for another minute
- Pour in vegetable broth and milk, stirring in oregano, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer
- Stir in orzo pasta, ensuring it's submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Uncover, stir in chopped broccoli florets, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender and orzo is al dente
- Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve in bowls garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesa
Notes
Grate cheese from blocks for the creamiest texture.
If the sauce is too thick, add more liquid when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 475 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 53 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg