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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

A warm, comforting dish combining orzo, broccoli, and sharp cheddar for a delightful, creamy experience in a one-pot meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Broth
  • 1 cup orzo Rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors well.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Use low-sodium for better flavor control.
  • 1 cup whole milk For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream.
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Add towards the end of cooking to maintain color and crunch.
Cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Freshly grated for best melting results.
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, optional Adds complexity to the flavor.
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard powder Enhances flavor and acts as an emulsifier.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth to the cheese flavor.
  • salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.

Method
 

Cooking the Orzo
  1. In a large pot, combine orzo, vegetable broth, and milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
Steaming Broccoli
  1. During the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
  2. Cover and allow to steam while the orzo finishes cooking.
Finishing Touches
  1. Remove the pot from heat and add sharp cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and garlic powder.
  2. Stir until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

For added protein, consider stirring in grilled chicken or cannellini beans. Serve as a main dish or as a side for your favorite proteins.