Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers all the richness of mac and cheese with the added benefit of vegetables and the convenience of one-pot cooking. It’s fast, family-friendly, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite protein, this broccoli cheese orzo is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Orzo pasta
- Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Garlic (minced)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Butter
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Whole milk or half-and-half
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Directions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the butter and aromatics.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 6–7 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked.
- Add the milk or half-and-half and stir until warmed through.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness if desired.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Servings and timing
Serves 4 as a main or 6 as a side
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled bacon.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in peas, spinach, or grated carrots for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream at the end.
- Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a sharp white cheddar for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just add it directly to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking, no need to thaw.
What is orzo?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well, making it perfect for one-pot dishes.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free orzo or small gluten-free pasta shapes. Be sure to check that your broth is also gluten-free.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir frequently, especially as it begins to cook and absorb the liquid.
Can I use water instead of broth?
You can, but broth adds much more flavor. If using water, increase your seasoning.
Will the cheese curdle if I add it too fast?
To avoid curdling, lower the heat before adding the cheese and stir continuously until melted.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough, and adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the texture is best when freshly made. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
What proteins pair well with this dish?
Grilled chicken, pork chops, or roasted salmon all pair beautifully with this cheesy orzo.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and use oil instead of butter.
Conclusion
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to love and even easier to make. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you get a flavorful meal or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a cozy, nourishing recipe you’ll return to again and again.
PrintOne Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with tender orzo pasta, broccoli, and melty cheese—all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup and big flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (main) or 6 servings (side)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the butter and aromatics.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 6–7 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes, until the orzo is tender and broccoli is cooked.
- Add the milk or half-and-half and stir until warmed through.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Add lemon zest for brightness if desired.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli—no need to thaw frozen broccoli before adding.
- Stir frequently to prevent orzo from sticking to the pot.
- Add extra milk or broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
- Great as a side or light vegetarian main dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (main dish portion)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
