Description

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the nuttiness of orzo pasta with vibrant, fresh broccoli and a rich cheese sauce, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion finely diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
chopped small
½ cup heavy cream or whole milk for a lighter version
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Zest of ½ lemon for brightness

Instructions

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the uncooked orzo pasta, vegetable broth, and chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Once cooked, stir in heavy cream (or milk), cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices you desire. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Finish with lemon zest for added brightness and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to customize the dish with additional vegetables or spices according to your preference. For a vegetarian option, stick with vegetable broth and omit any meat-based toppings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Side Dish
Method: One-Pot / Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 640 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 16 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo, orzo pasta, broccoli cheese, easy one pot meals, comfort food