One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo

This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo is a weeknight lifesaver! It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy evenings. The flavor combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – rich, cheesy, and packed with veggies. Plus, the minimal cleanup is an absolute dream. It’s a truly satisfying and comforting meal that requires very little fuss.

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo Ingredients

The magic of this dish truly lies in its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients. It creates a wonderfully creamy and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive Oil: For sautéing our flavor base.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness.
• Garlic: Essential for savory aroma.
• Uncooked Orzo Pasta: Cooks right in the broth.
• Vegetable Broth: Provides liquid and savory depth.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds fresh texture and color.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To enhance all flavors.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy sauce.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty goodness.

Substitutions and Tips

For a richer flavor, chicken broth works wonderfully. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like peas or spinach. Adjust the cheese amounts to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness. Exact quantities are in the recipe card below. This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo is so forgiving!

How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo

Let’s get this delicious meal on the table. These straightforward steps make it easy. You’ll have a fantastic One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo ready in no time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

First, heat the olive oil. Use a large skillet. A Dutch oven works too. Do this over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Cook it until it softens. It should look translucent. This takes about 5 minutes. This step builds a crucial flavor base.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Next, add the minced garlic. Toss in the uncooked orzo pasta. Cook these for 2 minutes. Stir constantly. Toasting the orzo adds a nutty flavor. It also helps the orzo hold its shape.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the small broccoli florets. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Next, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. Make sure it doesn’t stick. Cook until the orzo is tender. Most of the liquid should be absorbed.

Step 4: Get Cheesy

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese. Add the Parmesan cheese too. Stir until completely melted. You want a wonderfully creamy sauce. Taste it. Adjust seasoning if needed. This is where the magic happens for your One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the orzo immediately. It’s best when it’s hot. Enjoy that wonderfully cheesy goodness. This simple preparation makes it a weeknight win.

How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo

Let’s get this delicious meal on the table. These straightforward steps make it easy. You’ll have a fantastic One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo ready in no time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

First, heat the olive oil. Use a large skillet. A Dutch oven works too. Do this over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Cook it until it softens. It should look translucent. This takes about 5 minutes. This step builds a crucial flavor base.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Next, add the minced garlic. Toss in the uncooked orzo pasta. Cook these for 2 minutes. Stir constantly. Toasting the orzo adds a nutty flavor. It also helps the orzo hold its shape.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the small broccoli florets. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Next, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. Make sure it doesn’t stick. Cook until the orzo is tender. Most of the liquid should be absorbed.

Step 4: Get Cheesy

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese. Add the Parmesan cheese too. Stir until completely melted. You want a wonderfully creamy sauce. Taste it. Adjust seasoning if needed. This is where the magic happens for your One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the orzo immediately. It’s best when it’s hot. Enjoy that wonderfully cheesy goodness. This simple preparation makes it a weeknight win.

How to Store One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo

Got leftovers? Great! This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo keeps wonderfully. Store any extra in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge. It should last for 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for a quick lunch.

Want to freeze it? You absolutely can. Let the orzo cool down first. Then, put it into freezer-safe containers. Bags work too. It can stay frozen for 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat it gently. A little splash of broth or milk on the stovetop brings back the creamy texture. Or, just use your microwave. It will be delicious either way!

Tips for Success

Mastering this One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo is simple. Follow these pointers. You’ll achieve fantastic results every time. It’s all about a few key details.

• Always use good quality broth. Vegetable or chicken broth adds more depth.
• Cook broccoli just right. Aim for tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Stir the orzo often. This stops it sticking to the pan.
• Add your cheese off the heat. This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.
• Cheesiness is personal! Adjust amounts. Make it perfect for you.

These tips help make your One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo extra special. Enjoy the process!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo, you won’t need a fancy setup. Having the right tools makes the process smooth. Here’s what I usually grab:

• A large skillet or a Dutch oven works best.
• You’ll need measuring cups and spoons. Get those ingredients precise.
• A good cutting board is essential.
• A sharp chef’s knife helps with chopping.
• A sturdy stirring spoon or spatula is a must.
• If you plan on having leftovers, airtight containers are handy.

See? It’s all pretty standard kitchen stuff. These tools will help you create a perfect One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo is wonderfully versatile. It’s a satisfying meal all on its own. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

• Serve it as a complete meal. The orzo, broccoli, and cheese make it hearty.
• For a lighter touch, pair it with a simple side salad. This adds freshness. Think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
• Don’t forget the bread! Crusty bread is excellent for dipping. It soaks up that delicious cheesy sauce.
• Beverage pairings are also key. A glass of crisp white wine is lovely. Iced tea also complements the flavors nicely.

These serving ideas elevate your One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo experience. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo ahead?

Yes, you absolutely can. Prepare the orzo and broccoli. Do this up to the point before you add the cheese. Store it in the fridge. Then, reheat it gently on the stovetop. Add the cheese at the end. This keeps the sauce wonderfully creamy. It’s a great way to prep for a busy day.

What if I don’t have orzo?

Orzo is perfect here. Its size and cooking time are ideal. But you can try other small pastas. Ditalini or acini di pepe are good choices. You might need to alter the cooking time. Also, adjust the liquid amount. Experimentation is key sometimes!

How can I make this dairy-free?

Going dairy-free is easy. Swap the cheddar and Parmesan. Use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives. Make sure they melt well. A creamy sauce is the goal. You can also add nutritional yeast. A tablespoon adds a cheesy flavor boost. This makes your One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli-Cheddar Orzo accessible for everyone.

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