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One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
Laura

One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

Creamy, cheesy One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo ready in 20 minutes. This comforting one-pot meal features tender orzo pasta, bright green broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 pound broccoli crowns cut into small florets
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add dry orzo pasta and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast.
  3. Pour in broth and milk, stirring to scrape up any bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to prevent sticking. Orzo should be about 3/4 cooked with most liquid absorbed.
  5. Arrange broccoli florets on top of the orzo. Cover the pot and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
  6. Remove from heat. Immediately stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and nutmeg until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce
  • Keep heat at a gentle simmer to prevent sticking
  • Stir frequently, especially in the last few minutes
  • Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers
  • Cut broccoli into uniform small florets for even cooking