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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 7 reviews

A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich blend of butter, olive oil, garlic, and vegetable broth. This dish is a perfect vegetarian main or side, combining cheesy goodness with healthy greens in a quick and easy skillet meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • ½ Small Onion, chopped
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 3 Cups Broccoli Florets, cut into small pieces

Liquids & Dairy

  • 1 Tbs Butter
  • 2 Tbs Olive Oil
  • 2 Cups Vegetable Broth
  • ½ Cup Heavy Cream, room temperature
  • 1 ¼ Cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 1 Cup Orzo
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil together over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Cook Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and sauté for about one minute, stirring frequently to lightly toast it and coat it with the oil and aromatics.
  3. Add Liquids and Season: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  4. Simmer Orzo: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the orzo cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Add Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets. Move them around with a wooden spoon or spatula so they are partially submerged in the liquid. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until both the broccoli and orzo are tender.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts evenly into the creamy mixture.
  7. Serve: Let the dish cool slightly and serve warm as a comforting main or side dish. Enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Orzo!

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen broccoli florets based on availability; if frozen, thaw before using and adjust cooking time slightly.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the dish will be less rich.
  • To make it gluten free, use a gluten free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
  • Shred your own cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  • Adjust seasoning with extra garlic powder or pepper to taste.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, creamy orzo pasta, vegetarian skillet meal, cheesy broccoli pasta, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/broccoli-cheddar-orzo-recipe/