Description
This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make skillet dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli and a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all made in a single pan for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and toast orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and uncooked orzo pasta. Cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes, until the orzo is lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Add broth and season: Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Then add the chopped broccoli florets, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer until cooked: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add cheeses and stir: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Spoon the cheesy broccoli-orzo mixture onto plates and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if not vegetarian.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of milk or cream before adding cheese.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy orzo, broccoli orzo, one-pan dinner, easy weeknight meal, broccoli cheddar pasta, creamy orzo
