Description
This creamy Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a comforting and easy-to-make meal combining tender orzo pasta with steamed broccoli and a luscious sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers a delicious blend of cheesy, garlicky flavors with a hint of fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the orzo thoroughly and set it aside.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the orzo is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still bright green, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the milk or heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce and no lumps remain.
- Combine: Add the cooked orzo and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to your taste preferences. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy broccoli cheese orzo!
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Ensure broccoli is steamed to tender-crisp to maintain texture.
- Adjust seasoning gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
