One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Orzo Recipe
Description:
This One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Orzo is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The best part? Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! It’s a great side dish, but you can also enjoy it as a main course. The creamy texture, paired with the slight crunch of the broccoli, offers the perfect balance of flavors.
:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cut the broccoli into small florets (if using fresh broccoli). If using frozen, just ensure it’s ready to go.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast in the oil and aromatics.
- Add the Liquid:
- Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Stir in the broccoli florets, cover the pan with a lid, and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Cheese and Seasoning:
- Once the orzo is tender and the liquid has reduced, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) to taste.
- Serve:
- Once everything is well combined and the sauce is creamy, serve the dish hot.
- Optionally, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a bit of spice and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
(Based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Calcium: 20% of the Daily Value
- Iron: 8% of the Daily Value
Notes:
- Cheese Options: You can switch the sharp cheddar cheese for any other cheese you like such as mozzarella, gouda, or a cheese blend. For a creamier texture, feel free to add cream cheese or mascarpone.
- Broccoli Options: If using frozen broccoli, it may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the dish and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for extra protein. You can also stir in some cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Flavor Enhancements: For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving, or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top.
Prep and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even penne. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Q3: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and plant-based milk (like almond milk or oat milk). Ensure your broth is also vegan.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the cheese and the broccoli may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container, and consume within 2-3 months. Reheat gently to avoid separating the cheese sauce.