Introduction
Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Orzo made in one pot! This easy, comforting dish combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the broccoli florets. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Variation
- Substitute Broccoli: Replace the broccoli florets with cauliflower or chopped zucchini for a slightly different texture and taste. Cauliflower adds a nuttier flavor, while zucchini provides a softer, sweeter element to the dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they’re well combined and warm.
Cooking Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower or zucchini for variation.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
- To make it extra creamy, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or half-and-half with the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the orzo. The freshness of the salad adds a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Use as a Side Dish: This orzo pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted vegetables. Its mild and creamy profile complements a variety of main courses.
- Garnish with Extras: Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a few toasted breadcrumbs for added flavor and crunch. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the dish.
Tips
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the orzo from sticking to the bottom or cooking unevenly.
- Adjust the Liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid while cooking. If it absorbs too quickly, add a little more broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning. The cheese and broth already contain salt, so it’s best to add salt in small increments to avoid over-seasoning.
Prep Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the pasta is fully cooked but not overdone. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency. - What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can use other melting cheeses like gouda, Monterey jack, or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. Each cheese will give the dish a unique flavor profile, so choose based on your preference. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Unfortunately, orzo is not gluten-free. To make this dish gluten-free, replace orzo with a gluten-free pasta option or rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.
Conclusion
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a versatile and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether served as a main course or side dish, its creamy texture and cheesy goodness are sure to delight the whole family. Try out the variations or pair it with your favorite salad or protein for a complete meal. Happy cooking! 🍴
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One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Orzo made in one pot! This easy, comforting dish combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the broccoli florets. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower or zucchini for variation.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
- To make it extra creamy, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or half-and-half with the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese orzo, creamy orzo recipe, one-pot dinner, vegetarian comfort food