Craving a quick, creamy, and cheesy meal that comes together in one pot? This One-Pot Cheesy Orzo with Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with tender broccoli, cheesy goodness, and perfectly cooked orzo, this dish is both delicious and satisfying. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping things rich and indulgent. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a family favorite for any night of the week.
Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a quick vegetarian meal, this one-pot recipe will hit the spot. The creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and wholesome ingredients make it an instant classic!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience: Less mess, fewer dishes—everything cooks in one pot.
- Rich & Creamy: Made with cheese, butter, and broth for ultimate creaminess.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy goodness.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a stress-free meal.
- Customizable: Add chicken, bacon, or extra veggies for variety.
Ingredients:
For the One-Pot Cheesy Orzo with Broccoli:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Used:
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cheese grater
Directions & Instructions
1. Sauté the Ingredients:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
2. Cook the Orzo:
- Stir in orzo, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Add the Cheese & Cream:
- Stir in butter, milk (or heavy cream), cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt & pepper if needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
This dish is rich, creamy, and packed with nutrients, making it a comforting yet wholesome meal.
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations:
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Extra Creamy: Use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain before adding to the dish.
3. How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Stir frequently while cooking and don’t overcook.
Pro Tips By Lyndy
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking—it thickens beautifully!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese for more flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking—it thickens beautifully!
One-Pot Cheesy Orzo with Broccoli : Easy & Creamy Comfort Food
Craving a quick, creamy, and cheesy meal that comes together in one pot? This One-Pot Cheesy Orzo with Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cheese grater
For the One-Pot Cheesy Orzo with Broccoli:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Sauté the Ingredients:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Stir in orzo, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Cheese & Cream:
- Stir in butter, milk (or heavy cream), cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt & pepper if needed.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Stir frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking—it thickens beautifully!
