Broccoli Cheese Orzo: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Broccoli Cheese Orzo: Prepare to be amazed by this creamy, dreamy pasta dish that will redefine your weeknight dinners! Forget everything you thought you knew about comfort food because this isn’t just mac and cheese’s sophisticated cousin; it’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. I remember the first time I tasted something similar at a small Italian trattoria – the chef, a Nonna with twinkling eyes, told me it was a closely guarded family secret. While I can’t claim to have her exact recipe, this version captures the essence of that unforgettable meal.

Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, has a rich history, often featured in Mediterranean cuisine. Its versatility makes it a perfect base for absorbing flavors, and in this Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe, it truly shines. What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the tender orzo, the slightly crisp broccoli florets, and the velvety smooth cheese sauce. People adore this recipe because it’s quick, satisfying, and a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Plus, who can resist the allure of cheesy pasta? Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
• 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium, your preference!)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but adds a sophisticated flavor)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, extra cheese

Cooking the Orzo:

1. Cook the orzo according to package directions. I usually cook mine until it’s al dente, which means it has a slight bite to it. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the cheesy sauce. Don’t overcook it!
2. Drain the orzo well. Make sure to get rid of all the excess water. I like to give it a good shake in the colander.
3. Set the cooked orzo aside. We’ll add it to the cheese sauce later.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.
2. Whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. The roux is the base of our cheese sauce, and cooking it helps to eliminate the raw flour taste. It should be a smooth paste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk. This is important to prevent lumps! Start by adding a small amount of milk (about 1/2 cup) and whisking until it’s fully incorporated. Then, add another 1/2 cup and whisk again. Continue adding the milk in small increments, whisking constantly, until all the milk is added and the sauce is smooth.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Continue stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken further and the flour to cook completely. Keep stirring!
6. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch more salt or pepper to my liking.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat. This is important before adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.
8. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Add the cheese in batches, stirring until each batch is fully melted and incorporated before adding the next. This helps to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious.

Cooking the Broccoli:

There are a few ways you can cook the broccoli for this dish. I’ll outline my preferred method, but feel free to adapt it to your liking.

1. Steam the broccoli florets. I find that steaming is the best way to cook broccoli for this dish because it keeps the broccoli tender-crisp and prevents it from becoming waterlogged. You can use a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water, or you can steam the broccoli in the microwave.
2. To steam on the stovetop: Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket and set the basket over the boiling water. Cover the pot and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. To steam in the microwave: Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with about 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Be careful when removing the plastic wrap, as the steam will be hot!
4. Alternatively, you can roast the broccoli. Roasting gives the broccoli a slightly caramelized flavor that is delicious. To roast the broccoli, toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
5. Another option is to blanch the broccoli. Blanching involves briefly boiling the broccoli and then shocking it in ice water. This helps to preserve the bright green color and crisp texture of the broccoli. To blanch the broccoli, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes. Drain the broccoli and immediately plunge it into a bowl of ice water. Let it sit in the ice water for a few minutes to stop the cooking process. Drain the broccoli well.

Combining and Baking (Optional):

1. Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine, making sure the orzo and broccoli are evenly coated in the sauce.
2. At this point, you can serve the Broccoli Cheese Orzo immediately. It’s delicious as is!
3. If you want to bake it for a bubbly, golden-brown topping, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with breadcrumbs (optional). I like to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. You can also toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Let the Broccoli Cheese Orzo cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve it as a main course with a side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the richness of the orzo.
• Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It’s a great alternative to mashed potatoes or rice.
• Add some protein to the orzo to make it a more complete meal. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Top with red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
• Garnish with extra cheese or chopped fresh parsley.

Tips and Variations:

• Use different types of cheese. Experiment with different cheeses to create your own unique flavor combinations. Some other cheeses that would work well in this dish include fontina, mozzarella, and provolone.
• Add other vegetables. You can add other vegetables to the orzo, such as carrots, peas, or corn.
• Make it gluten-free. Use gluten-free orzo and gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.
• Make it vegan. Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese to make this dish vegan.
• Prepare it ahead of time. You can prepare the Broccoli Cheese Orzo ahead of time and bake it later. Simply assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. You may need to add a little bit of milk to the orzo when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Enjoy your homemade Broccoli Cheese Orzo! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and delicious. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or suggestions.

Conclusion:

This Broccoli Cheese Orzo isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful hug in a bowl that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I truly believe you’ll be making this recipe again and again! The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly coats the tender orzo and the slightly crisp-tender broccoli, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, yet satisfying enough to impress even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, the simplicity of the ingredients belies the incredible depth of flavor you’ll achieve.

Why You Absolutely Need to Make This

I know, I know, there are a million pasta recipes out there. But what sets this Broccoli Cheese Orzo apart is its ease of preparation and its universal appeal. It’s a dish that both kids and adults will devour, making it a lifesaver for those nights when you’re struggling to get everyone to agree on dinner. Plus, it’s packed with hidden veggies! The broccoli adds a nutritional boost without sacrificing flavor, making it a meal you can feel good about serving. And let’s be honest, who can resist a cheesy pasta dish?

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. While it’s fantastic as a standalone meal, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple side salad for a light and refreshing contrast. Grilled chicken or fish would also be excellent additions, adding a protein boost and transforming it into a more substantial meal.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own tastes.

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
* Add some protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for a heartier meal.
* Get creative with the cheese: Try using a blend of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan for a more complex flavor profile.
* Sneak in more veggies: Add some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the orzo while it’s cooking.
* Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free orzo for a delicious and allergy-friendly option.

I personally love adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving also brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Your Turn to Cook!

I’m so excited for you to try this Broccoli Cheese Orzo recipe. I truly believe it will become a staple in your kitchen. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy! I’m confident that this will be a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again. It’s simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. What are you waiting for? Get cooking!