Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo 🥦🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for effortless healthy broccoli meals that are both comforting and quick to prepare, then this Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect as a dinner with sides or a hearty main dish, it combines tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and al dente orzo in just one pot. Whether you’re looking for quick side dishes for dinner healthy, or a short ingredient recipe dinner that satisfies the entire family, this cozy and easy meal is a great choice. Its simple ingredients and quick cooking time make it an ideal freezer meal with broccoli or an ingredient-packed baby orzo recipe for busy weeknights.
2. Ingredients for Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Bold 1. Cook the aromatic base
In a large pot, heat the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Bold 2. Toast and simmer the orzo
Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast. Pour in the broth, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes without stirring, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Bold 3. Add broccoli and cook further
Uncover the pot, add the broccoli florets, and stir to incorporate. Cover again and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
Bold 4. Finish with cheese and serve
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed. For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes. Serve hot for a nutritious and satisfying meal. For more cozy and easy meals, explore spicy butternut squash soups or loaded veggie white lasagna.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk and microwave until warm, stirring occasionally. This recipe adapts well as a freezer meal with broccoli – just portion and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a quick, nutritious dinner option.
5. Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Pair this creamy orzo with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete dinner with sides. It also complements cooked proteins such as grilled chicken or tofu. For an extra nourishing touch, try adding a side of honey glazed carrots and green beans. For a complete family-friendly meal, check out this easy cheesy hamburger casserole.
6. Why Choose This Recipe? Benefits of Healthy Broccoli Meals
This creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo recipe is a fantastic example of dinners with celery and other nutritious ingredients that help you maintain a healthy diet. The inclusion of broccoli makes it rich in fiber and vitamins, while the cheese provides calcium and flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve as a quick dinner or as a freezer meal, making it a cozy, easy meal that fits into busy schedules and healthy eating goals.
7. FAQs about Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, by using vegetable broth, this short ingredient recipe dinner is perfect for vegetarians. Feel free to add vegetarian-friendly toppings like sautéed mushrooms or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish according to instructions, then store in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave for a ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker for quick cooling or reheating.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use coconut or almond milk instead of broth for a vegan version.
8. Conclusion
This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo marries healthiness and comfort in a simple, quick-to-make dish. Its versatility and flavor make it an excellent choice for dinners with sides or as a stand-alone, cozy meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a nourishing freezer meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the creamy goodness and vibrant broccoli in every bite!
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Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a quick, healthy, and comforting pasta dish made with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and al dente orzo cooked in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe combines nutritious ingredients with cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast.
- Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a rolling boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes without stirring, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Uncover the pot, add the broccoli florets, and stir to combine. Cover again and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season to taste. For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished as preferred, and enjoy this cozy, nutritious meal.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or milk in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- For a freezer-friendly version, portion and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American