Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
This creamy one pot broccoli cheddar orzo is cheesy, cozy, and incredibly comforting. Tender orzo, melty cheddar, and soft broccoli come together in a single pot for the ultimate easy comfort meal.
Equipment
- Large Pot or Deep Skillet
- Stirring Spoon
- Cheese Grater
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, chopped small
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese preferably sharp
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper to taste
- paprika or red pepper flakes optional, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and just lightly golden. This creates a warm, flavorful base for the orzo.
- Add orzo and broth: Stir the orzo into the pot so it gets coated in the garlicky butter. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo begins to soften and plump up.
- Stir in the broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot. If using fresh broccoli, make sure the pieces are small so they cook quickly. Let the orzo and broccoli simmer together until the broccoli is tender and the orzo has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add milk and make it creamy: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the milk or half-and-half. Stir gently as the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring so it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Fold in the cheddar: Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the cheese melts completely. Continue until all the cheese is incorporated and the orzo is coated in a rich, cheesy sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste the broccoli cheddar orzo and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve warm straight from the pot in bowls for a cozy, comforting meal.