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CREAMY ONE POT BROCCOLI CHEDDAR ORZO centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Joe Rooney

Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe Easy Quick

This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is a deliciously cheesy and comforting dish perfect for those busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, this meal comes together quickly in only 25 minutes using just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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 garnish

Method
 

  1. Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat then add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and transparent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Incorporate the minced garlic and garlic powder, stirring well and letting them cook for about one minute.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir frequently, allowing it to lightly toast for 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the broth, bring everything to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Add the broccoli florets, cover the pot, and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then.
  5. Take the pot off the heat and mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is thick and creamy.
  6. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste, and optionally sprinkle extra cheddar and freshly ground black pepper on top before serving warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. You can swap out broccoli for other greens like spinach, peas, or kale. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice if you prefer a bit of heat.