Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is creamy, cheesy, and packed with broccoli, perfect for a quick and cozy weeknight meal.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped broccoli florets Fresh is preferred.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth See instructions for details.
- ½ cup heavy cream Room temperature.
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, then sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the orzo pasta and cook with the onion for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, along with the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir and bring to a light boil. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 5 minutes, add the chopped broccoli and stir to combine. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Once tender, stir in the shredded cheese and turn off the heat. Allow the cheese to melt with the residual heat.
Notes
Fresh broccoli is preferred for texture and flavor; frozen can be used in a pinch.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cupCalories: 384kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 14gFat: 24gSodium: 811mgFiber: 3g
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