Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The orzo soaks up the delicious broth, while the cheddar cheese creates a rich and velvety texture. Plus, the broccoli adds a nutritious and vibrant touch to the dish, balancing the richness. It’s a versatile recipe too—you can easily add proteins like chicken or shrimp to make it even heartier. Perfect for a family meal or meal prep!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnishing

Directions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and garlic powder to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, making sure it is well-coated with the oils and onions.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the broccoli florets.
Cover the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally.
Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add protein: For a more filling dish, add cooked chicken or shrimp during the final few minutes of cooking.
Change the vegetables: Swap broccoli for spinach, peas, or kale for a different flavor profile.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of this dish.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just add it to the pot along with the broth.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

What type of cheese can I use instead of cheddar?

While cheddar is the star of the dish, you can substitute it with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini.

Can I freeze this dish?

This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the orzo may change when reheated. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, you can stir in a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with water to thicken it. Alternatively, cook the dish longer to let the liquid absorb.

How do I know when the orzo is done?

The orzo is done when it is tender and the liquid has been mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Conclusion

This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving comfort food. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a great dish to make again and again. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twists, you’re sure to love this cozy, cheesy meal!