Imagine a dish so creamy, cheesy, and irresistible that it transforms a simple pasta meal into a gourmet experience in just 30 minutes! This Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Orzo is not just a recipe; it's a culinary magic trick that turns humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comfort food enthusiast craving something rich and satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the broccoli florets and measuring out the orzo, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, pour the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the orzo pasta to the boiling broth, stirring to prevent sticking, and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer the orzo for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add the broccoli florets directly to the pan with the orzo, allowing them to cook together for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing gently to combine with the orzo and broccoli.
- Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor punch. The sharper the cheese, the more robust the taste.
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Keep it bright green and slightly crisp to maintain nutrients and texture.
- Stir frequently: This prevents the orzo from sticking and ensures even cooking and creamy consistency.
- Use low heat when adding cheese: This helps create a smooth sauce without separating or becoming grainy.
- Let the dish rest: Allowing the orzo to sit for 2-3 minutes helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together.
- Optional upgrades: Add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sautéed garlic for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 65mg
