Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

I love making this creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo when I want a comforting meal that feels rich yet simple. The tender orzo cooks right in the pot, absorbing all the flavor, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. The cheddar melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that brings everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how everything cooks in one pot, which makes cleanup so much easier. The orzo becomes perfectly tender and coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce without needing complicated steps.

I also enjoy how versatile this dish is. I can serve it as a hearty side dish or bulk it up into a main course. It’s cozy, satisfying, and perfect for busy evenings when I want something homemade and comforting.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
onion, finely diced
garlic, minced
orzo pasta
vegetable broth or chicken broth
milk
fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
shredded cheddar cheese
grated parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional)

Directions

1. I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. I sauté the diced onion until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. I stir in the orzo and toast it for about a minute to enhance the flavor.

4. I pour in the broth and milk, stirring well to combine.

5. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. I add the chopped broccoli during the last 4–5 minutes of cooking so it becomes tender but still vibrant.

7. Once the orzo is soft and most of the liquid is absorbed, I reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese.

8. I season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika if I want extra flavor.

9. I let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe typically serves 4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25–30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add cooked shredded chicken for extra protein. If I want a bit of heat, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

For a richer texture, I stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end. I also enjoy adding sautéed mushrooms for additional depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, I add a small splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I can use frozen broccoli. I add it directly to the pot and allow a few extra minutes for it to cook through.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

I stir frequently while it simmers and make sure there is enough liquid in the pot.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it in advance and reheat gently before serving. I sometimes add a splash of milk when reheating to refresh the texture.

What type of cheddar works best?

I prefer sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but mild cheddar also works well if I want a more subtle taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute regular orzo with gluten-free orzo or small gluten-free pasta, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

I truly enjoy making this creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo because it delivers comforting, cheesy flavor with minimal effort. It’s simple, satisfying, and easy to customize. Whenever I want a cozy meal that comes together quickly, this is one recipe I happily turn to.

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