Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Primary Components
01 -
1 cup broccoli florets (can be fresh or frozen)
02 -
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
03 -
1 cup small orzo pasta
04 -
1/2 cup rich heavy cream
05 -
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
→ Flavors & Extras
06 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
07 -
1 small diced onion
08 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
09 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
Add salt and pepper as you like
11 -
Some extra cheddar and fresh black pepper for a fancy touch (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Drizzle olive oil into a large pot and warm it over medium heat. Toss in the onion and sauté it for 3-4 minutes, stirring until soft and a bit see-through. Add garlic along with the garlic powder, giving it a quick stir for about a minute until it smells amazing. Be careful not to burn it though!
02 -
Toss your orzo into the pot and stir it for a couple of minutes. This short step gives it a nutty edge and makes sure all that flavorful oil clings to the pasta.
03 -
Pour in your broth and crank up the heat until it gently boils. Drop in the broccoli florets, reduce the heat, and slap a lid on the pot to let that broccoli steam and cook.
04 -
Leave it to simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Stir it now and then with the lid off so nothing sticks. Once the orzo is soft and the liquid’s mostly soaked up, it’s ready to go, with a naturally creamy texture forming.
05 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream right away so everything melts and combines into a smooth, cheesy sauce. Make sure it clings to all the pasta and broccoli bits.
06 -
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. Serve in bowls and, if you like, sprinkle some extra cheddar and a pinch of ground pepper for a cozy finishing touch.
# Notes:
01 -
Add cooked shrimp or chicken for an extra dose of protein.
02 -
Switch out broccoli for vegetables like kale, peas, or spinach if you’re in the mood for variety.
03 -
Sprinkle red chili flakes for heat or splash some lemon juice for a bit of zing.