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One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

Creamy One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo for Cozy Nights

This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo combines creamy cheese and tender orzo with crunchy broccoli, perfect for quick, cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitute with olive oil for dairy-free option.
  • 1 large Onion Use shallots for milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced is best.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with ditalini or quinoa for gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Try asparagus or spinach for variety.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 4 cups Vegetable/Chicken Broth Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use evaporated milk for lighter version.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substituting with mozzarella results in milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for vegan option.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for best taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adds a kick; customize to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Optional for brightening flavors.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly, about 1 minute.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add 1 diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another 30 seconds.
  3. Toast the Orzo: Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, toasting for about 1 minute.
  4. Add Broth and Boil: Pour in 4 cups of broth and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Incorporate the Broccoli: After 5 minutes, add 2 cups of chopped broccoli and cook until tender.
  6. Mix in Cream and Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
  7. Season to Taste: Add salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes and lemon zest.
  8. Combine and Serve: Let sit for a minute to thicken before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

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