Indulge in the comforting flavors of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and creamy orzo with this quick and easy One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

This dish is the ultimate comfort food that combines the creamy, cheesy satisfaction of a broccoli cheddar soup with the hearty texture of pasta. Here’s why it’s about to become a household favorite:

• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy: The sharp cheddar cheese and milk create a velvety sauce that coats every bite of orzo.
• Customizable: Add proteins, switch up the vegetables, or spice it up to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is kid-approved and a great way to sneak in some greens.

Ingredients for One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this creamy, cheesy dish to life:

Key Ingredients:

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces): Finely shredded for easy melting.
• Fresh Broccoli Crowns (1 pound): Cut into florets and stems for added texture and nutrition.
• Yellow Onion (1 large): Finely chopped to build a flavorful base.
• Garlic (6 cloves): Adds depth and aroma.
• Orzo Pasta (1 pound): The star of the dish, offering a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Low-Sodium Broth (32 ounces): Vegetable or chicken broth works well.
• Milk (1 cup): Use whole or 2% milk for creaminess without heaviness.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the vegetables.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the final dish.

Seasonings:

• Kosher Salt (1 3/4 teaspoons): Divided for seasoning throughout the dish.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor.
• Dry Ground Mustard (1 1/2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle tangy complexity.
• Ground Cayenne Pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Optional, for a slight kick of heat.

How to Make One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Shred the cheddar cheese using the smaller holes of a box grater to yield about 2 packed cups.
• Cut the broccoli into florets (1-1 1/2 inches) and dice the stems into 1/4-1/2-inch pieces.
• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and broccoli stems, along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the stems are nearly tender.

3. Cook the Broccoli Florets

• Add the broccoli florets, remaining salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well and cook for 3-5 minutes until the florets turn vibrant green.

4. Toast the Orzo

• Add the minced garlic to the pot, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the orzo pasta and toast lightly for 1 minute, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

5. Deglaze and Simmer

• Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring frequently, for 6-8 minutes until the orzo is almost al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Add Milk and Cheese

• Stir in the milk and simmer for 1 additional minute until the orzo is tender and the dish is saucy.
• Remove from heat and add the butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and incorporated, creating a glossy, creamy sauce.

7. Rest and Serve

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezer:

• Freeze the dish in individual portions for up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as above.

Variations and Substitutions

Get creative with this versatile recipe:

• Cheese Swaps: Try smoked gouda, parmesan, or a mix of mozzarella and fontina.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for added heartiness.
• Vegetable Substitutions: Replace broccoli with cauliflower, spinach, or mixed veggies.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but add it directly to the simmering broth without sautéing to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.

What’s the best way to prevent sticking?

Stir frequently while simmering to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Conclusion

One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is the ultimate weeknight hero: creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all while being easy to prepare and clean up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds!