Description
Looking for a quick dinner that’s creamy, comforting, and loaded with flavor? This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the perfect easy recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. It combines the rich, cheesy goodness of broccoli cheddar soup with the soft, velvety bite of orzo pasta—all in one pot! Whether you’re searching for quick breakfast ideas, easy dinner recipes, or healthy-ish comfort food, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that cooks fast and cleans up even faster.
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and milk, stirring well. Bring to a simmer.
4. Let orzo cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add broccoli florets in the last 3–4 minutes of cooking.
6. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan (if using) until melted and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
Add broccoli late in the cook time to keep its color and texture.
For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream with the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy orzo, broccoli cheddar pasta, comfort food