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

Shred the sharp cheddar cheese using the smaller holes of a box grater to get approximately 2 packed cups. Remove the stem end from the broccoli crowns, separate the florets into 1 to 1 ½-inch pieces, and dice the stems into ¼ to ½-inch pieces. Place the stems in a medium bowl.

Finely chop the onion until you have about 2 cups and add it to the bowl with the broccoli stems. Mince the garlic until you have about 4 teaspoons.

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the chopped onion and broccoli stems, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until the onion is translucent and the stems are nearly tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Introduce the broccoli florets to the pot along with the remaining kosher salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne if using. Stir well and cook until the florets turn vibrant green, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the orzo pasta, stirring constantly to toast it slightly for about 1 minute.

Pour in the broth, stirring to combine while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, stirring every minute until the orzo is nearly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed but remains glossy, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Add the milk and stir to combine. Continue to simmer until the orzo is al dente but still saucy, about 1 minute more.

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the butter and shredded cheese, ensuring both melt completely and the orzo develops a glossy, creamy texture.

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. 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!