Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting blend of creamy cheese and tender broccoli in this delightful Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo. This easy-to-make dish combines al dente orzo pasta with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, vibrant broccoli florets, and a hint of garlic, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for your favorite proteins, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-13T17:42:10.348Z

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a cozy and comforting dish that comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The creamy texture and rich flavor will surely please your family and friends.

A Wholesome Meal

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is not just a dish; it's a wholesome meal that champions nutrition without sacrificing taste. Broccoli provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a superfood for your health. Paired with the richness of cheddar cheese, this dish balances indulgence with nutritional value, ensuring that you and your family enjoy a fulfilling experience at the dinner table.

The blend of textures from the creamy sauce and al dente orzo adds an element of satisfaction that is hard to resist. Each bite delivers a comforting warmth, making it perfect for cooler evenings or whenever you crave something hearty and delicious. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need both speed and comfort in your meals.

Versatile Side Dish

Not only is Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo a fantastic standalone dish, but it also serves as an incredibly versatile side. Whether you're serving roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a vegetarian main, this orzo complements various flavors beautifully. Its creamy cheese sauce can enhance the simplest of proteins, transforming an ordinary meal into a memorable feast.

Additionally, this orzo dish can be customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add cooked proteins such as chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or incorporate other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase its nutritional profile. With minimal effort, you can adapt this dish to fit any occasion.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for the week, ensuring you always have a delicious and nourishing meal on hand. This is great for busy individuals or families looking to streamline their weekly dinners without losing the joy of cooking and eating together.

When stored in airtight containers, this dish can last in the fridge for up to four days, making it a smart choice for quick lunches or last-minute dinners. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove for a meal that tastes freshly made, allowing you to enjoy wholesome goodness even on the busiest days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Combine and Serve

Reduce the heat and mix in the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the sauce, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Enjoy your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo while it's hot as a delightful main dish or side!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! You can use gluten-free orzo or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. The cooking process remains the same, ensuring that you can enjoy this creamy delight without the worry of gluten.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese? Yes! While cheddar cheese is traditional for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles. Just remember that different cheeses may melt differently, so adjust cooking methods if necessary.

Storage Tips

To keep your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Simply place the cooled orzo and sauce in freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency, as the sauce may thicken in storage. This simple addition can bring your leftovers back to life, giving you that fresh-made taste for days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and omit any meat products for a vegetarian dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.