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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli florets and melted sharp cheddar cheese, all cooked together in a flavorful broth base. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or hearty side dish.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Main Components

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Dash crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Cheese

  • 2 1/2 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Toast Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes. This light toasting step enhances the flavor and texture of the pasta.
  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, whole milk (or heavy cream), kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
  4. Cook Broccoli: Stir in the small broccoli florets, cooking for 5 minutes until they turn bright green and become just tender but still crisp.
  5. Melt Cheese: Mix in the grated cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy, coating the orzo and broccoli evenly.
  6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and season with additional kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute whole milk with heavy cream for an even richer dish or use a non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • To add protein, consider stirring in cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu.
  • If you like a bit of heat, don’t skip the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese for better melt and flavor.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/broccoli-cheddar-orzo-recipe/