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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a cozy one-pot dish that combines tender orzo pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce and fresh broccoli florets. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

  • Orzo pasta: 1 ½ cups
  • Broccoli florets: 3 cups, bite-sized
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Onion: 1 small, finely diced
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: 4 cups
  • Milk: 1 cup
  • Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded (sharp preferred)
  • Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
  • Heavy cream (optional): ¼ cup
  • Salt & black pepper: To taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): For heat

Instructions

  1. Sauté: In a large pan, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in orzo and toast lightly.
  2. Cook Orzo: Add broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until almost tender (about 8 minutes).
  3. Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli, cover, and cook until broccoli is tender and orzo creamy (5 minutes).
  4. Make Creamy: Reduce heat, stir in milk, cheddar, and Parmesan until smooth and melted.
  5. Finish: Add heavy cream if desired, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  6. Serve: Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Toast orzo in butter first for a nutty flavor.
  • Add cheese off the heat to prevent graininess.
  • Use fresh broccoli for best texture and color.
  • Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyze.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-orzo/