This quick and easy One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe is creamy, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. A delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and satisfying meal, this One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is the perfect answer. Combining tender orzo pasta with nutritious broccoli and melty cheese, this dish delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, making it a dream for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours cooking or cleaning up.

This recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser that works as a main dish or a side. It’s perfect for picky eaters too, as the creamy cheese sauce makes the broccoli extra appealing. You can customize it by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon for extra protein and flavor.

Ready in under 30 minutes, this orzo dish is a game-changer for quick, family-friendly dinners. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add the Orzo and Broth: Stir in the uncooked orzo and pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Cook the Orzo: Cover and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add the Broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Stir well, cover, and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
5. Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if desired.
6. Serve and Garnish: Remove the pot from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

To ensure the perfect texture, make sure to stir the orzo frequently while it cooks. This helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Use fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli works well in a pinch—just add it a minute earlier to allow for proper cooking.

If you want an even creamier dish, swap half of the broth for milk or add a tablespoon of cream cheese when stirring in the cheeses. For extra protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Leftover veggies like spinach or peas can also be added for a boost of nutritio

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as a side.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid slightly.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and make sure your cheeses are vegetarian-friendly.

Q3: How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creaminess.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce can change texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q5: What can I serve with this dish? This orzo pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, tender pasta, and nutritious broccoli in one simple dish. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own, and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free meal in under 30 minutes.

Try this recipe tonight and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness—all in just one pot!