Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo – Cozy and Comforting Weeknight Dinner
A cozy, creamy one-pot orzo dish with tender broccoli and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or lunch meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
-
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup dry orzo pasta
-
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
-
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
-
¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half, warmed
-
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
-
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
¼ teaspoon paprika or dry mustard powder
-
Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
-
In a large pot, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
-
Add onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
-
Add orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
-
Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 8 minutes.
-
Stir in broccoli, cover, and simmer for 5 more minutes.
-
Add warm milk and cheddar, stirring until cheese is fully melted.
-
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg if using.
-
Stir in remaining tablespoon of butter before serving.
Notes
-
Substitute chicken broth if not vegetarian.
-
Add protein like cooked chicken or bacon.
-
Reheat with a splash of milk to refresh creaminess.