Description
This Creamy Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a quick, cheesy, and comforting side dish packed with tender broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta (about 200g)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 250g)
- 2 cups chicken broth (475mL)
- 1 cup milk (240mL)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 150g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter (28g)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince garlic, and shred cheese. Measure out the rest of the ingredients.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in orzo and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally as orzo absorbs the liquid.
- Add broccoli florets when orzo is almost done cooking. Cover skillet and let steam cook the broccoli until tender but still bright green.
- Remove skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.
Notes
[‘Toast the orzo for extra flavor.’, ‘Cover the skillet to steam broccoli evenly.’, ‘Stir often to prevent orzo from sticking.’, ‘For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.’]
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 9
Keywords: broccoli cheese orzo, creamy orzo, easy side dish, quick recipe, cheesy broccoli