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