One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a comforting and easy weeknight meal that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli and a cheesy sauce. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comes together quickly in just one pot for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 whole sweet onion (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups finely chopped broccoli
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1.5 cups sharp cheddar (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan (grated)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Add the garlic and shredded carrots, cooking for a few more minutes until the garlic is tender and fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the uncooked orzo and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer, then cover with a lid and cook for about 6 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the lid, add the chopped broccoli and milk, then stir well. Cover again and cook for 4 more minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
5. Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Swap cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor profile.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten the dish before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it in the same step as fresh broccoli and adjust cooking time slightly until tender.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The creamy cheese sauce and mild flavors make it a kid-friendly dish that’s easy to enjoy for the whole family.

One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

This comforting One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli, shredded carrots, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Cooked in a single pot, this creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a cozy meal any time you crave cheesy goodness with a nutritious twist.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 whole sweet onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded carrots

Pasta and Broth

• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth)

Vegetables and Dairy

• 2 cups finely chopped broccoli
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat Butter and Oil: Add olive oil and butter to a heavy bottomed pan or braiser over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and a pinch of salt, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the onions are softened.
2. Sauté Garlic and Carrots: Stir in the chopped garlic and shredded carrots, cooking for a few more minutes until the garlic becomes tender and fragrant.
3. Cook Orzo with Stock: Add the uncooked orzo and chicken stock to the pan. Stir well, then cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 6 minutes.
4. Add Broccoli and Milk: Remove the lid, stir in the chopped broccoli and whole milk, then cover again. Continue cooking for 4 more minutes until the orzo is al dente and broccoli is tender.
5. Incorporate Cheeses and Season: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
• For a richer flavor, use whole milk or half-and-half.
• Freshly grated cheese melts better and offers superior taste compared to pre-shredded options.
• Do not overcook the orzo to prevent mushiness; the pasta should be al dente.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick if desired.

Keywords: one pot meal, broccoli cheese, orzo recipe, quick dinner, creamy pasta, stovetop pasta, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner