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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, all cooked together in a flavorful broth-infused base. Perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or side dish, it comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients and a stovetop cooking method.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Dash crushed pepper flakes (optional)

Vegetables & Cheese

  • 2 1/2 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter together with olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
  2. Toast Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This light toasting enhances the orzo’s nutty flavor and improves its texture once cooked.
  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with the milk or heavy cream. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes or until the orzo is tender but still al dente.
  4. Cook Broccoli: Stir in the small broccoli florets into the skillet and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. This allows the broccoli to turn bright green and become just tender without overcooking.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce that coats the orzo and broccoli.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve warm as a wholesome vegetarian main or side dish.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
  • For a richer texture, use heavy cream instead of whole milk.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to balance the richness.
  • If you prefer your broccoli more tender, cook it a few minutes longer.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely with a splash of milk.

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