Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
This creamy and cheesy broccoli cheddar orzo comes together in just 30 minutes or less, all in one pot. It's very easy and simple, and can be paired with your favorite proteins.
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 462kcal
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 small yellow onion, small-diced
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth plus more as needed
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets about ½ inch
- 1 cup half-and-half plus more as needed
- 2 ½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium pot or deep skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add minced garlic, shredded carrots, and Italian seasoning, and cook for another 1 or 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta and stir for about 2 minutes, until it smells a bit nutty and fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Then, add the chopped broccoli florets, cover again and cook for another 5-6 minutes until tender.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, as well as the half-and-half. Bring to a light simmer for just a few seconds. Note: When you uncover the pot, there should still be some broth leftover, which helps build the creaminess. If not, add an extra generous splash.
- Off the heat, stir in the shredded cheese until melted, creamy, and cheesy. If too thick, add more half-and-half as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Chop broccoli into ½ inch florets to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can cause grittiness and affect melting. Use a box grater or a food processor.
- Adjust consistency: If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or half-and-half before serving.
- Make ahead: Up to 3 days ahead, and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers with a splash of half-and-half or milk to restore creaminess.
- Orzo: Ditalini.
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.
Nutrition
Serving: 1bowl | Calories: 462kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 753mg | Potassium: 357mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 2898IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 439mg | Iron: 1mg