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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Creamy broccoli cheddar orzo made in one pot with tender veggies, melty cheese, and cozy flavors in every bite.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, main dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: broccoli cheddar orzo, broccoli cheddar orzo recipe, broccoli cheese orzo
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onion about half a large onion
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic about 2 cloves
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup dried orzo
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • ¾ cup half and half
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, and add 1 cup diced onion. Cook until the onions begin to turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Add ½ cup shredded carrots and 2 teaspoons minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 cup dried orzo and cook to toast lightly for about 1 minute. Add 2 cups chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add 3 cups broccoli florets and ¾ cup half and half and simmer for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
  • Once the orzo is tender, turn off the heat and add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the butter and cheese are melted.

Notes

Storage & Reheating Instructions
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
  • Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish. The cream sauce will separate, and the pasta will turn mushy.

Nutrition

Calories: 513kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 801mg | Potassium: 529mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 3774IU | Vitamin C: 66mg | Calcium: 411mg | Iron: 1mg

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