Description
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting, one-pan dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and a rich, cheesy cheddar sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick weeknight dinner is perfect for busy families and anyone craving a cozy, wholesome meal. The balance of vibrant broccoli, silky orzo, and sharp cheddar makes for a crowd-pleasing vegetarian side or main course.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pasta and Veggies
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Liquid & Seasonings
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a subtle warmth)
Creamy Cheddar Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Garnishes (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated cheddar
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Saute the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Orzo & Broccoli: Add the dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the butter and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the chopped broccoli. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is just cooked through. Most of the liquid should be absorbed; add a splash more broth or water if needed.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the mixture is creamy. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring after each addition to ensure it melts smoothly. Continue to cook gently over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is rich and creamy.
- Taste and Serve: Taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra cheddar, or black pepper as desired.
Notes
- For an extra protein boost, stir in cooked diced chicken or chickpeas at the end.
- Feel free to substitute whole milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Frozen broccoli can be used; no need to thaw beforehand.
- Sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor, but you can blend with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently with a splash of broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 44mg
