Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Enjoy the comforting Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, a delightful dish combining pasta, cheese, and broccoli.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1 cup orzo tiny pasta that soaks up creaminess
2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
4 cups vegetable broth can substitute with chicken broth

For the Creamy Sauce

1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese can substitute with gouda or mozzarella
1 cup heavy cream or use half-and-half or milk
2 tablespoons butter or substitute with olive oil

For Seasoning

2 cloves garlic minced
to taste salt
to taste pepper

Optional Add-Ins

as desired cooked chicken for heartiness
as desired fresh herbs like parsley or thyme

Equipment

large pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in orzo pasta and toast for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden.
Add vegetable broth and broccoli florets, raise heat to boiling, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer for about 15 minutes until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, stir, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For best texture, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth.

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