Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo | Cozy, Cheesy Weeknight Dinner

Hi there, food lover! 👋
Ready to make dinner extra cozy, creamy, and comforting without a sink full of dishes? 🥦🧀 Today’s recipe is the kind of warm, satisfying meal that saves busy weeknights and brings everyone back to the table smiling: Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo. It’s simple, hearty, and full of that classic cheesy goodness we all crave when we want comfort food that still feels wholesome.

This dish is inspired by traditional home-style cooking, where meals were made in a single pot, flavors were built slowly, and nothing fancy was needed to make something truly delicious. Orzo, though shaped like rice, cooks up tender and silky like pasta, making it the perfect base for a creamy, spoonable dinner. When paired with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, it becomes a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.

What makes this recipe especially special is its one-pot method. Everything cooks together, allowing the orzo to absorb the savory broth while releasing its natural starches, creating a naturally creamy texture without heavy cream overload. The broccoli adds color, freshness, and texture, while the cheddar melts into a smooth, comforting sauce that coats every bite. 🥰

This is the kind of dish you make on chilly evenings, long days, or anytime you want something warm and dependable. Serve it on its own, or pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad. Either way, this cozy skillet meal is bound to become a repeat favorite in your home.

🧺 Ingredients

For the Orzo:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for warmth)

Optional Add-Ins & Garnish:

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes 🌶️
• Extra shredded cheddar for topping
• Chopped parsley or chives for freshness

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Place a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, letting them melt together.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it.
4. Add the dry orzo to the pot and stir for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly in the butter and oil. This step adds depth of flavor.
5. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring well to prevent sticking. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for about 6–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo begins to soften.
7. Stir in the milk, then add the chopped broccoli florets. Mix gently so the broccoli is evenly distributed.
8. Continue cooking for another 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green and just cooked through.
9. Lower the heat to low. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
10. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
11. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it to your desired consistency.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
13. Remove from heat and let the orzo rest for 2–3 minutes — it will thicken slightly as it sits.
14. Garnish with extra cheese and fresh herbs if desired, then serve warm.

📝 Notes

• Freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese. 🧀
• Cut broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly with the orzo.
• For extra protein, stir in cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or chickpeas at the end.
• To make it extra cozy, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
• Leftovers thicken in the fridge — simply reheat with a little milk or broth.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~420
🍽️ Servings: 4

• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg

This Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is everything a weeknight dinner should be: easy, comforting, and deeply satisfying. 🥦🧀 With its rich texture, familiar flavors, and minimal cleanup, it brings old-fashioned comfort into modern kitchens. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish wraps you up in warmth with every spoonful.

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️

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