Description
This Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli florets and a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect as a quick side dish or a light vegetarian main, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups small broccoli florets
Dairy and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Orzo and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the broccoli florets so they cook simultaneously. Drain both the orzo and broccoli together and return them to the pot.
- Sauté Garlic and Butter: Add the butter and minced garlic to the warm orzo and broccoli. Stir over low heat until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. This infuses the dish with a rich, savory flavor.
- Add Milk and Cheeses: Pour in the milk and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the orzo turns creamy and velvety in texture.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Serve warm either as a delicious side dish or a satisfying light vegetarian main course.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or white beans.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or swap in Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
