Description
Creamy and comforting broccoli cheddar orzo, perfect as a side dish or light meal. This recipe combines tender orzo pasta with steamed broccoli florets and a rich cheddar cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- While the orzo cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and steamed broccoli.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or cream.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg