Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Dinner (Print Version)

One-pot dish featuring tender orzo, broccoli florets, and melted cheddar in a creamy, flavorful blend.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Fats and Oils

01 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Produce

03 - 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 3 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces

→ Pasta

06 - 1 cup orzo pasta

→ Liquids

07 - 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
08 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, room temperature

→ Dairy

09 - 1 1/4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

→ Seasonings

10 - 1 tablespoon garlic powder
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Heat unsalted butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add orzo. Stir continuously for 1 minute to toast the pasta and prevent sticking.
03 - Slowly pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream while scraping any browned bits from the skillet with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring until well combined.
04 - Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 - Evenly scatter broccoli florets over the orzo, pressing them slightly into the liquid without fully submerging. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until both broccoli and orzo are tender, stirring occasionally.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Stir in freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving warm.

# Extra Tips & Details:

01 - For best melting, shred cheddar cheese by hand just before use.
02 - Use frozen broccoli florets if fresh are unavailable; add directly without thawing and adjust cooking time to achieve tenderness.
03 - Stir orzo regularly during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even texture.

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