Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and creamy orzo with this quick and easy One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is rich, satisfying, and simple to make. With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is minimal, and the flavors blend beautifully to create a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded (approximately 2 cups)
• 1 pound fresh broccoli crowns
• 1 large yellow onion
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divide
• 1 ½ teaspoons dry ground mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 pound dried orzo pasta
• 1 carton (32 ounces) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (approximately scant 4 cups)
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Preparation Method

1. Shred sharp cheddar cheese to get about 2 packed cups.
2. Prepare broccoli by removing stems, separating florets into 1 to 1 ½-inch pieces, and dicing stems into ¼ to ½-inch pieces. Place stems in a bowl.
3. Finely chop onion to yield about 2 cups and add to the bowl with broccoli stems.
4. Mince garlic to get about 4 teaspoons.
5. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
6. Add onion, broccoli stems, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until onion is translucent and stems are nearly tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.
7. Add broccoli florets, remaining salt, pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne if using. Cook until florets are vibrant green, about 3 to 5 minutes.
8. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
9. Add orzo pasta and stir for about 1 minute to toast.
10. Pour in broth, stir to combine, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring every minute until orzo is nearly al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 6 to 8 minutes.
11. Add milk and stir to combine. Simmer until orzo is al dente and saucy, about 1 minute more.
12. Remove from heat and stir in butter and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
13. Let dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips and Conclusion

For extra richness, swap the sharp cheddar with smoked gouda or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a protein boost. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a deliciously simple dish packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and fresh broccoli. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty meal with minimal effort. Looking for more easy, satisfying recipes? Explore our collection of one-pot meals for more inspiration!