Description
Creamy one-pot broccoli cheese orzo brings comfort and convenience to weeknight dinners with its rich, cheesy goodness. Hearty ingredients meld together in a single pan, promising a delightful meal that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Liquid Base:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aromatic essence.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet and add orzo pasta, stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and pasta reaches an al dente texture.
- Introduce broccoli florets directly into the skillet, allowing them to nestle among the orzo and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, creating a luxurious base for the cheesy mixture.
- Gradually sprinkle sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses into the skillet, stirring continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the orzo and broccoli.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
- Remove from heat and let the orzo rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the creamy, comforting one-pot meal.
Notes
- Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of garlic for a milder or more intense flavor profile.
- Select high-quality sharp cheddar and parmesan for richer, more complex cheese notes that elevate the entire dish.
- Make this recipe vegetarian by swapping chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensuring all cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
- Control the consistency by adding more or less broth, creating a saucier or more compact orzo texture based on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 523
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1020 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 19 g
- Cholesterol: 61 mg