Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar in a luscious, creamy sauce, all cooked in a single pot for quick 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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the orzo pasta and toast it, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then 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. Step 4: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is creamy and the cheese has melted completely.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra protein, stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon before adding the cheese and cream.
• Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
• If using frozen broccoli, no need to thaw—just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure it softens properly.
• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but expect a slightly less creamy texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the dish has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, use vegetable broth, replace the cheddar with a vegan cheese alternative, and substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk.

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 141 reviews

This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a comforting and easy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender orzo pasta is simmered with fresh broccoli in flavorful broth, then enriched with sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream for a luscious, cheesy finish. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish blends creamy textures and savory flavors in every bite.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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 Garnishes

• Freshly ground black pepper
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic & Toast Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for about 1 minute until aromatic. Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, increase heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add the broccoli florets, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
4. Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and well combined.
5. Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting, creamy broccoli cheddar orzo!

Notes

• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for extra flavor.
• Frozen broccoli florets work well and save prep time.
• If the mixture gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the texture.
• For a sharper cheese flavor, use extra sharp cheddar.
• Stir frequently when simmering to avoid sticking or burning.
• This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a little added cream or broth.

Keywords: Broccoli cheddar orzo, one pot orzo recipe, creamy orzo pasta, easy broccoli pasta, quick vegetarian dinner