Description
This creamy and comforting One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta is cooked with fresh broccoli florets in a savory vegetable broth, then combined with rich cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for a luscious finish. With minimal prep and one skillet to clean, this dish is ideal for a nutritious and flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toast Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the garlic-infused oil. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook the orzo for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet, stir to combine, then cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green and cooked through.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and if using, paprika and red chili flakes. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Serve warm as a satisfying main or side dish.
Notes
- Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- Toast the orzo carefully to avoid burning the pasta or garlic.
- Fresh broccoli is preferred, but frozen may be used – just add slightly earlier to ensure it cooks through.
- Optional spices like paprika and red chili flakes add a subtle kick but can be omitted for a milder dish.
