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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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4.4 from 88 reviews

This creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a quick and easy stovetop meal that combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese in a luscious sauce. Perfect as a main dish or a side, it’s packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced small
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 ⅓ cup dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups small broccoli florets

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups milk (2% recommended)
  • 1 Tbsp chicken bouillon (Better-Than-Bouillon paste recommended)
  • ½ tsp mustard

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar (orange or white)
  • ⅓ cup grated parmesan

To Taste

  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Add butter to your pot and heat over medium heat until melted and bubbling.
  2. Sauté Onion and Seasoning: Add the diced onion and Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and softened.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Combine Pasta and Broccoli with Liquids: Add the orzo pasta, broccoli florets, water, milk, chicken bouillon paste, and mustard to the pot. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine.
  5. Cook the Orzo Mixture: Allow to cook uncovered for 12-15 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Maintain a gentle simmer; reduce heat to medium-low if the mixture begins to boil. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the excess liquid is absorbed.
  6. Incorporate Cheeses and Final Seasoning: Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with black pepper and salt as needed after tasting.
  7. Rest and Serve: Close the lid and let the orzo rest for 5 minutes to thicken. Serve hot, garnished with extra black pepper and shredded cheddar if desired. Enjoy your creamy broccoli cheddar orzo!

Notes

  • You can use a pot or a sauté pan with enough capacity to hold all ingredients. A large braiser or Dutch oven works best for even cooking.
  • Use extra sharp or aged cheddar cheese for maximum flavor impact; milder cheeses will result in a less robust taste.
  • Keep the heat at a gentle simmer; avoid a rolling boil to prevent the orzo from sticking and burning. Adjust heat as needed.
  • Adjust cooking time and liquid amounts as necessary to ensure the orzo is plump and cooked through without drying out.
  • Salt amounts vary depending on the cheese and bouillon brand used, so add salt to taste after the cheese melts.

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