Cheesy Broccoli Orzo
A delightful comfort dish combining tender orzo pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious blend of cheeses, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen.
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 1 cup heavy cream For creamy texture.
- 1-1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Shred the cheese for better melting.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese To add rich flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Can use pre-minced garlic.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- to taste smoked paprika
- to taste garlic powder
- to taste onion powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- to taste Italian seasoning
- for garnish fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the butter melts, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until bright and tender-crisp.
Cooking
- Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until orzo is al dente.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
- Gradually add sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan, stirring continuously until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Serving
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, sauté broccoli in lemon juice and zest. Customize with different veggies. Freezing leftovers is recommended for later enjoyment.