This creamy one-pot dish is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender orzo, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s comfort food you can whip up easily.
I love that it only uses one pot—less mess means more time to enjoy. And let’s face it, who can resist gooey cheese and bright green broccoli? Yummy! 🧀🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for a creamy dish. If you don’t have orzo, you could use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds great color and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli florets will work well too. Just add them in at the same time you would fresh.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a delightful tang. If you prefer a milder flavor, go for medium cheddar. For a twist, try adding a bit of colby jack or even cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth is key for controlling saltiness. If you want a lighter option, use water or make your own broth with some vegetable scraps.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Texture in This Dish?
To get that creamy texture, it’s all about incorporating the cheese and ensuring your orzo is cooked just right. Here’s how:
- Start by toasting your orzo slightly with butter first. This gives it a nice flavor.
- When you add the broth and milk, bring it to a gentle boil, allowing the orzo to absorb the liquid slowly.
- Cook the orzo until it’s just slightly firm, not mushy! You still want a little bite to it.
- Once the orzo is cooked, immediately add your cheese and stir. The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese perfectly!
Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning. Don’t be shy to add a little extra cheese if you want an even creamier outcome!
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg for warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely dish takes about 20 minutes in total—5 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, all in just one pot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet or wide saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it bubbles gently.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook it until it’s soft and translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Pour in the orzo pasta, stirring to coat it with the butter for 1-2 minutes. This helps bring out the flavors of the pasta!
4. Add Liquid and Bring to a Boil:
Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the milk. Give it a little stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Orzo:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
6. Stir in the Broccoli:
When the orzo has about 5 minutes left to cook, stir in the broccoli florets. Cover the pot with a lid to help steam the broccoli and keep it vibrant and tender.
7. Add the Cheddar:
Once the orzo is cooked and the broccoli looks bright green, turn off the heat. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and creamy.
8. Season and Serve:
Season your dish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like. Stir everything together, serve hot, and enjoy this warm, cheesy bowl of comfort!
This recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and vibrant flavors—all in one pot for easy cleanup. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a star here, feel free to swap in vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetable’s cooking requirements!
What If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No problem! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, mini shells, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different pasta types may require adjustments.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk), and replace the cheese with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to moisten the dish and revive the creamy texture.