If you love the classic flavor combo of broccoli and cheddar, this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is going to be your new favorite side dish — or maybe even a full meal. It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy, with tender orzo pasta and bits of fresh broccoli all folded together in a silky, cheddar-loaded sauce.
I first made this when craving something cozy and comforting but didn’t feel like dealing with a full pot of mac and cheese. The orzo cooks quickly, and the whole dish comes together in one pan — easy cleanup, big flavor, and family-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together for maximum flavor and minimal mess.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Like a velvety pasta risotto with sharp cheddar goodness.
- Vegetable Boost: A great way to sneak in extra broccoli.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Add Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth
Pour in the orzo and broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, butter, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth, creamy, and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, parsley, or extra cheese.
Perfect Pairings
- Grilled or baked chicken
- Salmon or shrimp
- Crisp green salad
- Roasted carrots or asparagus
- Garlic bread
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- Chop broccoli small for even cooking and better texture.
- Stir often as orzo can stick — think of it like risotto.
- Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Add Bacon: Stir in crispy crumbled bacon for smoky richness.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and veggie broth.
- Protein Boost: Stir in diced cooked chicken or chickpeas.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the orzo, then reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
- Fridge Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Stir over medium-low heat with extra liquid until creamy again.
Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and full of broccoli goodness — this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the ultimate comfort dish everyone will crave!
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Add Broccoli
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth
- Pour in the orzo and broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
- Stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, butter, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth, creamy, and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, parsley, or extra cheese.
Notes
- Chop broccoli small for even cooking and better texture.
- Stir often as orzo can stick — think of it like risotto.
- Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, cheesy orzo recipe, one-pot orzo, broccoli pasta, creamy orzo, easy weeknight pasta, vegetarian comfort food, broccoli cheddar side dish, stovetop orzo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes — thaw it first and pat dry to avoid excess water.
2. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Small pastas like ditalini or couscous work, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary.
3. How do I make it extra creamy?
Use half-and-half instead of milk, and add a little extra cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese.
4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — substitute gluten-free orzo or rice.
5. What’s the best cheese for this?
Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella too.
