One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy and delightful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. With its combination of tender orzo pasta, crisp broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This one-pot dish embodies convenience and flavor. It consolidates all your ingredients into a single pot, allowing for easy cleanup while still delivering a comforting meal. Additionally, the inclusion of broccoli offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, balancing out the creamy richness of the cheese. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies that even picky eaters will love! Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various tastes while remaining family-friendly.
How to Make One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
Creating One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is simple and requires minimal effort. Follow these directions, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute.
- Add the orzo pasta and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and continue to cook until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
- Remove from heat, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Success with One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
- Cook Medium Heat: Ensure the heat is medium; too high can lead to overcooked pasta.
- Adjusting Cheese: If you prefer a stronger flavor, try mixing in different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets will yield the best texture, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can be a suitable alternative.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the dish’s aesthetics but also adds a burst of freshness.
- Make It Creamier: For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream right before serving.
Flavor Variations for One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
- Add Protein: Consider tossing in some cooked chicken, ham, or sautéed shrimp to complement the dish and boost the protein content.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that will elevate your meal.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with broccoli and cheese.
- Experiment with Herbs: Along with thyme, adding fresh basil or oregano can provide a delightful and aromatic twist.
- Change the Cheese: Substitute cheddar with gouda or pepper jack cheese for a new flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs nicely with various accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the orzo.
- Garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Roasted vegetables for an additional dose of nutrition and color.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
Leftovers can be stored easily.
- Refrigeration: Place cooled orzo in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you wish to freeze it, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Just remember that freezing might alter the texture slightly.
To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|———–|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and ensure that the vegetable broth is free of animal products. You can also enhance the creaminess with plant-based cream or cashew cream.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
To prevent mushy pasta, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking times. Generally, orzo takes about 10 minutes to cook until al dente. Stirring occasionally will also help ensure even cooking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese. Store it in the fridge and heat it up when you’re ready to serve. Just add the cheese and seasoning before enjoying.
What can I serve as a side with this dish?
For a complimentary side dish, consider serving a simple Caesar salad or grilled vegetables. You can also pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the family together. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and ease of preparation, it checks all the right boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. Whether you’re accommodating picky eaters or looking for a simple yet satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to delight. Try it today, and watch it become a staple in your home!
Print
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and delightful one-pot dish featuring tender orzo pasta, crisp broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute.
- Add the orzo pasta and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and continue to cook until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
- Remove from heat, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream right before serving. Use fresh broccoli for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
