Cheesy Broccoli Orzo: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction to Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Broccoli Orzo is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant broccoli, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals that brought us together. One of our favorites was a cheesy pasta dish that my grandmother made. Her love for cooking and her special touch with cheese inspired me to create this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo recipe. It’s become a staple in my own kitchen, reminding me of those warm family moments while adding my unique twist.

What Makes This Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its combination of flavors and textures. The sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the dish, creating a creamy sauce that coats the orzo perfectly. The addition of fresh broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also brings a nutritious element to the table. Plus, this dish is versatile! You can easily modify it by adding proteins or even different vegetables, making it a family favorite that can adapt to your needs.

The Full Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1 pound broccoli crowns (about 2 medium)
• 1 large yellow onion
• 6 large cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dry ground mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 pound dried orzo pasta
• 1 (32-ounce) carton low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (scant 4 cups)
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Start by shredding 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese. This will give your dish a rich flavor.
2. Trim the stems from 1 pound of broccoli crowns, cutting the florets into 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces. Don’t forget to chop the broccoli stems into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces for added texture.
3. Finely chop 1 large yellow onion and grate 6 large cloves of garlic to enhance the flavor of your dish.
4. In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion, chopped broccoli stems, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the stems are almost tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Next, add the broccoli florets along with the remaining salt and pepper, dry ground mustard, and cayenne if you’re using it. Cook until the florets are vibrant green, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the grated garlic and cook briefly for about 30 seconds. Then add the orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for about 1-2 minutes before pouring in the low-sodium broth.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the orzo is almost cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 10-12 minutes.
8. Stir in 1 cup of whole or 2% milk and continue to simmer until the orzo is al dente but still saucy, about 3-5 minutes.
9. Remove from heat, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and the orzo is glossy. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

This Cheesy Broccoli Orzo can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or more cheese before serving. You can also add cooked beef or chicken for a protein boost, making it a complete meal. Serve it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a comforting dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it on the stove. Just add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can incorporate other vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and variety.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 6

Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

A creamy and delicious pasta dish featuring sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Dutch oven For cooking the orzo and vegetables.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded About 2 cups.
• 1 pound broccoli crowns About 2 medium.
• 1 large yellow onion
• 6 large cloves garlic Grated.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.75 teaspoons kosher salt Divided.
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Divided.
• 1.5 teaspoons dry ground mustard
• 0.125 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper Optional.
• 1 pound dried orzo pasta
• 32 ounces low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth Scant 4 cups.
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

 

• Shred 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese.
• Trim the stems from 1 pound of broccoli crowns, cutting the florets into 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces. Chop the stems into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces.
• Finely chop 1 large yellow onion and grate 6 large cloves of garlic.
• In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion, chopped broccoli stems, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the stems are almost tender.
• Add the broccoli florets, remaining salt and pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne if using. Cook until the florets are vibrant green.
• Add the grated garlic and cook briefly, then add the orzo. Toast the orzo lightly before pouring in the broth.
• Bring to a boil, then simmer until the orzo is almost cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
• Stir in the milk and simmer until the orzo is al dente but still saucy.
• Remove from heat. Add butter and cheese, stirring until melted and the orzo is glossy. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider topping with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley. Feel free to add cooked beef or chicken for a protein boost.

Keyword Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Recipe