Description
This One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a quick and comforting meal featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with fresh broccoli and a cheesy cream sauce. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner that combines wholesome vegetables and rich flavors in a single skillet.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Cook orzo and broccoli: Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
- Finish with cheese and cream: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a warm, cheesy dish.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly dish.
- For added protein, consider stirring in cooked chicken or chickpeas.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust the cream quantity for a richer or lighter sauce according to preference.
- Keep stirring occasionally during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
