Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. This simple yet delicious dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, perfectly complemented by vibrant broccoli florets. It’s quick to prepare and is sure to become a family favorite, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in orzo pasta and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is al dente.
- Add fresh broccoli florets in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- Lower the heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving. Substitute spinach or kale for broccoli for a different green option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth or water.