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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

This creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender orzo cooked with fresh broccoli, aromatic garlic and onions, and sharp cheddar cheese melted into a velvety sauce. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main, it combines the nuttiness of orzo with the freshness of veggies and rich cheese for an easy, homey meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 small yellow onion, small-diced
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (about ½ inch pieces)

Dairy

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup half-and-half, plus more as needed
  • 2 ½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Pantry

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, plus more as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a medium pot or deep skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, shredded carrots, and Italian seasoning and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Toast the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir for about 2 minutes until the pasta releases a nutty aroma. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
  3. Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper to taste, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the orzo to begin absorbing the liquid.
  4. Cook the broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli florets on top of the orzo without stirring. Cover the pot again and cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
  5. Make it creamy: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the half-and-half. Bring to a light simmer for just a few seconds. If the mixture seems too thick or the liquid has evaporated completely, add an extra splash of half-and-half or broth to reach your desired creamy consistency.
  6. Incorporate the cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust the consistency again with a bit more half-and-half if needed. Serve immediately warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Chop broccoli into ½ inch florets to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
  • Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for the best melting quality and a smooth sauce.
  • If the dish thickens too much before serving, stir in a splash of broth or half-and-half to loosen the sauce.
  • This recipe can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of half-and-half or milk to restore creaminess.
  • Substitution: You can substitute orzo with ditalini pasta if preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, creamy orzo pasta, cheesy pasta recipe, comfort food, vegetarian pasta, broccoli pasta dish

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