Description
This creamy broccoli cheddar orzo recipe is a comforting and easy one-pan meal that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Cooked on the stovetop, it’s a perfect weeknight dish that comes together quickly with a rich, cheesy sauce and a hint of garlic and red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with the milk. Stir to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook broccoli and orzo: Add the chopped broccoli florets. Cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheeses and butter: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, butter, salt, and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired for some heat.
- Finish cooking: Cook for another 1–2 minutes on low heat until the mixture is creamy and the cheese is fully melted. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- To make this gluten-free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety or omit pasta and add extra broccoli.
- You can add cooked chicken or crispy bacon to boost protein content.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to taste for more or less creaminess.
- Stir frequently when cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
