One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy orzo, melty cheddar, and bright broccoli come together in a one-pan, family-friendly weeknight meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 pound broccoli (approximately 2 medium heads), stems peeled and finely chopped, florets finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
05 - 1 pound orzo pasta

→ Liquids and Seasoning

06 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
07 - Kosher salt, to taste
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Dairy and Cheese

09 - 180 millilitres whole milk (3/4 cup)
10 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (from an 8-ounce block)

→ Garnish

11 - Sliced chives, for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add finely chopped onion, season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, approximately 7 minutes.
02 - Add chopped broccoli and sauté, stirring, until florets are crisp-tender and bright green, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Add orzo to the pan and stir constantly until lightly toasted and beginning to turn golden, approximately 1 minute.
04 - Pour in broth; season with additional salt. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Reduce to medium-low, simmering and stirring frequently, until most liquid is absorbed, about 7 minutes.
05 - Stir in milk, return to a simmer, and continue stirring until the mixture is creamy and the orzo is tender, about 1 minute more.
06 - Remove skillet from heat and gently stir in shredded cheddar. Let stand for 5 minutes until cheese melts and sauce thickens. Stir to combine before serving, and garnish with sliced chives.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Peel broccoli stems before chopping to ensure tender results.
02 - Substitute cauliflower or green beans for broccoli if desired.
03 - For a vegetarian preparation, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
04 - Enhance with cooked sausage, rotisserie chicken, or add cayenne for heat if preferred.

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