Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

In a world where convenience often trumps nutrition, finding ways to include vegetables in our meals is more important than ever. Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are vital for maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases. Broccoli, a key ingredient in our orzo dish, is particularly nutrient-dense. It's a powerhouse of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and folate, making it an essential addition to any balanced diet.

Discover the heartwarming delight of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, a dish that perfectly blends sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce. This meal is ideal for any night of the week, offering both satisfaction and nutrition. Packed with vitamins, this versatile dish can be customized with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Easy to make, it’s a comforting choice that the whole family will love, ensuring you enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

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Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium preferably

1 cup milk (or heavy cream for an ultra-creamy texture)

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of the cooking time, carefully add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the orzo and broccoli, and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.

Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, and slowly pour in the milk (or heavy cream) while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, which will help it thicken just a bit.

Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, adding it a handful at a time, ensuring that each addition melts fully before adding the next. After all the cheese has been incorporated, mix in the ground black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Combine Everything: Add the drained orzo and broccoli back into the pot with the creamy cheese sauce. Gently stir until everything is well coated and heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serve: Ladle the creamy broccoli cheddar orzo into individual serving bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your wonderfully comforting dish!

- Preparation Time: 10 minutes

- Total Time: 30 minutes

- Servings: 4