Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of broccoli and cheddar cheese with the rich, creamy texture of orzo pasta. It’s a feast for the eyes with its vibrant green broccoli contrasted against the golden cheese, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this recipe will not disappoint.
Imagine the satisfying taste of creamy cheese mingling with fresh broccoli, all wrapped around tender orzo. The aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a bite. In this article, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to create this delicious dish, helpful tips for serving, and variations to keep things exciting. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh ingredients make each bite healthy and flavorful.
- One-pot preparation means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
- Packed with nutrients from broccoli and cheese, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
- Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side, fitting any occasion.
- Beautifully presented, it looks gourmet, impressing friends and family alike.
You’ll find plenty of reasons to love this dish!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
(Note that times may vary.)
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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
How To Make Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute. Add the orzo pasta and toast for another 1-2 minutes.
- 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.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar and black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve
- Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful colors.
- Pair with a simple side salad or warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Portion for around 4 servings, ensuring everyone has enough to savor.
- Sip on a crisp white wine or refreshing lemonade for a perfect beverage pairing.
Your guests will come back for seconds!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- For customization, mix in cooked chicken or swap broccoli for spinach.
- Consider serving with a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Spinach Orzo: Substitute broccoli with spinach for a different green veggie twist.
- Spicy Cheddar Orzo: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Mushroom and Broccoli Orzo: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the orzo in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly! Just add it when you add the broth.
2. Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth, and you’re all set for a vegetarian dish.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.
4. How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp, or change up the veggies according to your taste.
5. Can I cook this using a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by sautéing the onions and garlic first and then cooking on low with the other ingredients.
Conclusion
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is not just easy to make, but it also brings a burst of flavors and colors to your table. With its delicious combination of cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli, it’s a perfect dish for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will surely delight. Get ready to enjoy every creamy bite!
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Ingredients
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
- 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 For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute. Add the orzo pasta and toast for another 1-2 minutes.
Cooking
- 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.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar and black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
