Description
A creamy and cheesy dish that combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli, creating the perfect comfort food that’s easy to make and loved by all. Ideal as a side or a main dish!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 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)
- 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. Drain and set aside.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the orzo cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the milk (or cream) and bring to a simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked orzo and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Notes
- For added flavor, you can use a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a gooier texture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of cream.
- Add cooked chicken or bacon to turn this into a hearty main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg