Name: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients:

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Orzo and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

While the orzo is cooking, prepare the broccoli. If you haven’t done so already, cut the broccoli into small florets. You want them to be bite-sized so they mix well with the orzo.

In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the orzo, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and tender-crisp. Once the orzo and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. The aroma will be heavenly!

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help to infuse the flavors from the onion and garlic into the broth.

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to warm through for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: the cheddar cheese! Gradually sprinkle in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. This step is crucial for achieving that luscious, cheesy texture.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. I always recommend tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are just right!

Combining Everything

Once the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, it’s time to add the cooked orzo and broccoli back into the pot. Gently fold everything together, ensuring that the orzo and broccoli are well-coated with the cheese sauce.

Let the mixture cook on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash more of vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the pot from the heat. This dish is best served warm, so don’t wait too long to dig in!

Garnishing and Serving

Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. It adds a lovely contrast to the creamy dish.

Serve the creamy broccoli cheddar orzo in bowls, and if you like, you can add an extra sprinkle of cheese on top for good measure. Who doesn’t love more cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and don’t forget to share the recipe!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the orzo cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The combination of tender orzo, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a crisp side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also customize the recipe by adding in some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or even swapping out the broccoli for your favorite seasonal vegetables like spinach or asparagus. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together! Happy cooking! Print