Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo: A Cozy and Delicious Meal 🥣🧀🥦
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for cozy easy meals that are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, a Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the perfect answer. This healthy and versatile pasta dish combines tender broccoli, velvety cheese, and baby orzo into a comforting dinner that requires minimal cleanup. Whether you need short ingredient recipes for dinners or a tasty option for dinners with sides, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for broccoli meals healthy, easy to make ahead as a freezer meal with broccoli, or a quick plain dinner idea after a busy day.
2. Why Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
This quick side dish for dinner healthy provides a nutritious way to incorporate more broccoli into your diet, thanks to its vibrant green veggie. Plus, the creamy cheese sauce turns this simple pasta into a family favorite. It’s perfect when you want easy black bean & sweet potato soup recipes or other healthy comfort foods. The article also explores korean ground beef bowls and other slow cooker meals with broccoli, showcasing the versatility of broccoli in various dishes.
3. Ingredients Needed for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For additional kitchen tools, consider using the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master for chopping broccoli and garlic easily, or the CAROTE Premium Nonstick Cookware Set for effortless cooking and cleanup.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Best Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
In a large skillet or pot, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the orzo cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green. You can also use the Fullstar Veggie Prep Master for quick chopping.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Mix
In the same pan, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the cooked orzo and broccoli, coating everything evenly.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture heats up. Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the creamy broccoli cheddar orzo hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs. This dish pairs well with dinners with sides such as grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
5. Storage Tips for Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. This meal is also a fantastic candidate for freezer meals with broccoli, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
6. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dinner
Pair this creamy orzo with grilled chicken or baked salmon for a complete protein. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
If you’d like more ideas for cozy meals, check out this dinner ideas.
7. FAQs About Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Is this broccoli and cheese orzo suitable for freezer meals?
Yes, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored as a freezer meal with broccoli. Reheat gently to preserve its creamy texture.
What variations can I try in this recipe?
You can add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or a dash of hot sauce to customize the flavor. For a korean-inspired twist, incorporate some sesame oil and scallions.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based cheese and substitute the milk with almond or soy milk for a vegan version of this creamy broccoli orzo.
8. Conclusion
The Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is an easy, healthy, and comforting meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a balance of nutritious broccoli and cheesy goodness in a cozy, satisfying dish. Whether you’re seeking short ingredient recipes for dinners or a versatile plain dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to explore our other quick and healthy dinners with sides for more inspiration to elevate your home-cooked meals.
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Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. This delicious dish combines tender broccoli, cheesy goodness, and orzo pasta cooked all in one pot for minimal cleanup. A nutritious and versatile dinner idea that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a family favorite for quick, healthy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- While the orzo cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green. Use the Fullstar Veggie Prep Master for quick chopping if desired.
- In the same pan, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the cooked orzo and broccoli, coating everything evenly.
- Pour in milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture heats up. Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Dish out the creamy broccoli cheddar orzo hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs. Serve with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- To make this dish vegan, substitute with plant-based cheese and plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
- Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
