Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, it delivers rich flavor with minimal cleanup.

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 half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Substitute broccoli with spinach, peas, or kale for different flavors.
• Add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store 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 if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other melty cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, but cheddar gives this dish its signature sharp flavor.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly to the pot without thawing.

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 104 reviews

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable or chicken broth with fresh broccoli, then finished with rich cheddar cheese and heavy cream for a luscious texture. Perfect as a quick weeknight meal, it’s packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Pasta, Comfort Food
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Dairy

• 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 and fragrant, creating the flavor base for the dish.
2. Add Garlic & Toast Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute more to release their aroma. Add the orzo pasta and toast it by stirring for 1-2 minutes, which adds a nutty flavor to the pasta.
3. Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. 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 heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the dish becomes creamy and smooth.
5. Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally garnish with extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.

Notes

• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Vegetable Swap: Substitute broccoli with spinach, peas, or kale to vary the greens.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice to add a hint of spice and brightness.

Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, creamy pasta, one-pot meal, easy dinner, comfort food, broccoli pasta, cheddar cheese pasta