Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a light main course, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and is cooked entirely on the stovetop for ease and quick cleanup.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Pantry
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
Dairy and Oils
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- ½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic cloves thoroughly to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil and butter. Once melted and hot, add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Toast the orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir continuously and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the orzo, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Add liquids and season: Pour in chicken broth and room temperature heavy cream. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a light boil over medium heat.
- Simmer the orzo: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the orzo simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook broccoli with orzo: Add the chopped broccoli to the skillet and stir to incorporate. Continue cooking the mixture for another 5-6 minutes until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked but still bright green and slightly crisp.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese off the heat. The residual heat will melt the cheese smoothly into the creamy orzo and broccoli mixture. Serve hot immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can swap sharp cheddar for a milder cheese like mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For extra richness, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk if the mixture gets too thick.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your desired spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
