Go Back
–+ servings
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo: Creamy Comfort in Under 30 Minutes

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version
  • 1 medium Onion diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can be substituted with gluten-free pasta
  • 4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth homemade or store-bought
For the Goodness
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or Milk light substitutions will alter richness
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese mix with mozzarella for enhanced meltability
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese freshly grated for best flavor
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
For Optional Flavor Boosts
  • Red Pepper Flakes for heat
  • Smoked Paprika for smokiness
  • Lemon Zest for brightness

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Deep skillet
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Sauté Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, add diced onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Toast the Orzo: Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the pot, toast it with the aromatics for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 4 cups of broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Broccoli: Add 2 cups of broccoli florets, cover and steam for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender.
  5. Stir in Cream: Lower heat, add 1 cup of cream, stir gently for 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly thickened.
  6. Melt the Cheeses: Turn off heat, add 1 cup of cheddar and 1/2 cup of parmesan, stir until melted and blended.
  7. Season and Serve: Taste and add salt, pepper, and optional toppings, serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Keep an eye on the broccoli to avoid overcooking. Customize with proteins or extra veggies as desired. Use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!