Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe! This delightful dish combines tender orzo pasta with fresh broccoli and a rich, velvety cheddar cheese sauce, all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Perfect for families, this comforting meal is a delightful way to enjoy veggies while satisfying cheesy cravings.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-09T15:26:50.666Z

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo checks all the boxes. With just one pot required, you can whip up a delicious meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor. The combination of orzo, broccoli, and cheddar cheese not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also ensures that it is packed with nutrients.

Cooking a wholesome meal for your family doesn't have to be a daunting task. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the time spent with loved ones. Plus, the creamy texture and comforting flavors make it a hit with both adults and kids. Everyone will appreciate a bowl of this creamy goodness at the dinner table.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. Loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and a wealth of antioxidants, incorporating broccoli into your meals contributes to a healthy diet. This recipe not only provides a delicious way to enjoy broccoli but also ensures you and your family receive its numerous health benefits.

Moreover, the vibrant color of fresh broccoli adds an inviting touch to the dish, enticing even the pickiest of eaters. When cooked just right, it maintains a slight crunch, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy orzo. This transformation of a classic vegetable makes it easier to introduce nutritious ingredients into your family’s diet.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the fabulous aspects of this Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is its versatility. Feel free to add in other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. You can also swap the shredded cheddar for your favorite cheese or even mix in a blend for a more complex flavor profile.

If you're looking to add protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. These additions can make the dish heartier and take it from a simple side to a complete meal. No matter how you customize it, this creamy orzo will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delicious dish!

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect meal!

Cook Orzo

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to toast slightly.

Add Broccoli and Broth

Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes until orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked.

Stir in Cheese and Cream

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and heavy cream until it is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Your creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo is ready to serve!

Equipment Needed

To make this Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, you'll need a large pot or Dutch oven. This will allow for even cooking and make it simple to mix all the ingredients together. Having a wooden spoon or a spatula on hand will also facilitate stirring the orzo and cheese mixture to achieve that silky texture you desire.

A measuring cup and spoons will help you get the quantities just right, especially for the orzo and broth. If you wish to make this dish even creamier, a whisk can be helpful to thoroughly blend your cheese and cream.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of your Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because dairy tends to thicken over time, you may find that the orzo gets a bit dense when stored. To remedy this, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

When reheating, you can use either a microwave or stovetop. If using a microwave, heat it in short bursts and stir in between to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This ensures that your delicious dinner maintains its delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread can elevate your dining experience. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice contrast and helps balance the richness of the orzo.

For those who enjoy a bit of extra flavor, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or a hint of lemon juice over the top right before serving. This can add a zesty touch that complements the creamy cheddar sauce perfectly, making for a memorable meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture of the broccoli may change upon reheating.