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Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

A delicious and nutritious one-pot meal featuring orzo pasta, broccoli, and cheddar cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for an extra minute.
  4. Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to a simmer, add the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until creamy.
  8. Season with salt and pepper and garnish if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or oregano. Substitute cheeses as desired. Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze before adding cream and cheese.