Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

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This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the creamiest, cheesiest orzo you can imagine, filled with tender broccoli, that cooks up in under 30 minutes.

Whether you are a fan of broccoli or not, this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a must-try dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Just saying the name brings an instant sense of comfort, creamy, cheesy, nostalgic perfection. Like cozying up with your favorite blanket on a rainy day.

You will need just a few simple ingredients to create this easy side dish (or vegetarian meal) that’s nutritious, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or cookouts!

WHAT IS ORZO?

Also known as risoni, orzo is a short-cut pasta shaped like a large grain of rice.  Made from durum wheat semolina, not rice grain, it cooks quickly and is usually used in soups, salads, and side dishes.

WHAT INGREDIENTS DO I NEED?

This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a perfect nourishing and cozy weeknight meal! Full of flavor and texture, you can make it all in the same skillet. 

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ white onion - chopped
• 1 ½ cups orzo
• 2 cups broccoli - chopped
• 2 ¾ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese + additional for topping
• salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley as garnish

HOW DO I MAKE BROCCOLI CHEDDAR ORZO?

In a large skillet, begin to heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until onions become tender and garlic is fragrant.

Add the chopped broccoli and orzo. Sauté for another minute or so, then add the chicken broth, salt & pepper. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Then, remove from heat and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese.

This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a satisfying recipe that’s both filling and quick to make. In less than 30 minutes you will have a meal everyone will love!

Don't forget to try my Vegan Broccoli & Cheese Soup and Chicken Broccoli & Cheese Crescent Rolls!

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ white onion - chopped
• 1 ½ cups orzo
• 2 cups broccoli - chopped
• 2 ¾ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese + additional for topping
• salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley as garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, begin to heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until onions become tender and garlic is fragrant.
2. Add the chopped broccoli and orzo. Sauté for another minute or so, then add the chicken broth, salt & pepper. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Then, remove from heat and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese.