This creamy broccoli cheddar orzo is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, it’s super comforting and easy to make.
I whip this up on busy days since everything cooks in one pot—it’s a lifesaver! Plus, I love how cheesy and creamy it gets. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta shape is perfect for creamy dishes. If you’re out of orzo, you can swap it for small pasta shapes like ditalini, pastina, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a lovely crunch. Frozen broccoli works too and is super convenient! If you want, you can replace broccoli with other veggies like spinach or peas for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, try using mozzarella or Monterey Jack. For a twist, mix in a bit of blue cheese or feta.
Whole Milk: While whole milk makes this dish creamy, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or light cream as alternatives based on your dietary preferences.
How Can You Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a smooth and creamy sauce is key to this dish. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out perfect:
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic—these add depth to the flavor.
- When you add the broth, make sure to bring it to a gentle boil before simmering. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- After adding the broccoli, keep the lid on for a few minutes to lock in moisture. This steams the broccoli perfectly.
- As you mix in the milk and cheese, keep stirring until everything is well combined and creamy! This is where the magic happens.
Let the dish sit for a few moments before serving; it will thicken slightly as it cools. A sprinkle of parsley or chives on top adds a nice touch!
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This will create a wonderful foundation of flavor!
2. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pot and toast it lightly while stirring frequently for about 1-2 minutes. This adds a nice nutty flavor to the orzo.
3. Cook the Orzo:
Now, pour in the broth and bring the entire mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered. Stir occasionally until the orzo is almost tender, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
4. Add the Broccoli:
Mix in the broccoli florets, stirring them into the orzo. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. This step brings in those lovely greens!
5. Make it Creamy:
Now it’s time to stir in the milk (or heavy cream for more richness), the paprika, mustard powder (if using), and the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens!
6. Final Seasoning:
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and let it sit off the heat for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy orzo into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if you like. Enjoy this delightful dish warm—it’s perfect for any day!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great and saves prep time. Just add it at the same stage as fresh broccoli; it will cook quickly and still be tender and flavorful.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, feel free to substitute it with another small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different grains may vary.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare it in advance! Cook the orzo and broccoli, then mix in the cheese and milk just before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How Can I Make the Dish Lighter?
For a lighter version, you can substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a light cheese option to cut back on calories.
