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Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo: Comfort in Every Bite

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, a cozy meal that combines comfort food with easy one-pot cooking.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup orzo small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini can be used as substitutes
  • 4 cups broth vegetable or chicken
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded; can substitute with gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream can substitute with half-and-half or milk
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
Optional Additions
  • proteins (chicken, shrimp, bacon) mix in for extra heartiness

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add bite-sized broccoli florets to the pot, stirring into the onion-garlic mixture, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the orzo and your choice of broth, stirring to combine, and increase the heat to bring to a gentle boil for about 5 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted, creating a creamy consistency.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 14gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.

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