One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole: A Perfectly Cozy Comfort Food

Name: One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole: A Perfectly Cozy Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 16 oz broccoli; 6 oz orzo; 2 ounces shredded Italian cheese; 1 packet vegetable stock; 1/2 onion; 1/2 sprig thyme; 2 garlic cloves; 1 1/2 cups water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; A pinch of salt; A pinch of pepper; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Rosy

Servings: 4 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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This revamped version of the classic Cheesy Broccoli Orzo takes things to the next level by turning it into a delicious, creamy casserole that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.

This Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole is everything you love about the original dish, with an added baked twist that brings out the flavor even more.

The combination of creamy orzo, tender broccoli, and gooey melted cheese, all with a crispy breadcrumb topping, is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for dinner or as a hearty side dish!

Ingredients: Simple and Flavorful Staples

To make this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole come to life, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that pack a ton of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this incredibly easy, yet delicious dish:

1 pound (16 oz) broccoli – Fresh broccoli florets provide that perfect crunch and bright flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy orzo.
6.3 ounces orzo – This small, rice-shaped pasta soaks up the vegetable stock and melts perfectly with the cheese, creating a comforting base for the casserole.
1.8 ounces shredded Italian cheese (divided) – A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and other Italian cheeses adds depth and that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave. You’ll use some in the casserole and reserve the rest for a cheesy finish on top.
1 packet vegetable stock – A packet of vegetable stock adds rich, savory depth, giving the casserole a flavorful base.
1/2 onion, diced – Onion brings a mild sweetness and savory aroma that will enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
1/2 sprig thyme, finely chopped – Fresh thyme delivers an herbal note that brings freshness and warmth to this comforting dish.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic is a must for adding savory richness, balancing the flavors with its robust taste.
1 1/2 cups water – This is used to dissolve the vegetable stock, forming the perfect base for cooking the orzo.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Olive oil is essential for sautéing the onion and garlic, ensuring they soften and release all their flavors.
A pinch of salt and pepper – These simple seasonings elevate the dish and balance out the richness of the cheese and cream.
1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess) – For those looking to take the comfort level up a notch, adding heavy cream will make the casserole extra indulgent and creamy.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional) – Adding breadcrumbs on top of the casserole before baking gives it a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

These ingredients work together to create a flavor-packed casserole that’s easy to make, full of comforting textures, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you choose to add the heavy cream or breadcrumbs, this dish will surely become a favorite!

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Path to Cheesy Perfection

Making this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Prep the Ingredients:

Start by preparing your ingredients to ensure everything comes together seamlessly.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, enough to cover the broccoli, and add a pinch of salt to season it.
Peel and cut the onion in half, then dice one half into small cubes.
Peel and finely chop the garlic to release its bold, aromatic flavor.
Cut the broccoli into florets, making sure they’re evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Finely chop the thyme, adding just the right amount of earthy, herbal freshness.

2. Prepare the Stock:

This step is crucial for infusing the orzo with deep, savory flavor.

In a small pot, heat 1 1/2 cups of water and dissolve the vegetable stock over high heat. Stir occasionally until fully dissolved.
Once it boils, turn off the heat and set it aside, allowing the stock to maintain its flavor-rich base.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

This is where the dish starts to come alive with fragrance and flavor.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The smell will be irresistible!
Add the chopped thyme and orzo, and cook for an additional minute, stirring to lightly toast the orzo and allow it to absorb those incredible aromas.

4. Cook the Orzo:

Now it’s time to get the orzo perfectly cooked and flavorful.

Pour the vegetable stock into the skillet and stir everything together.
Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the delicious flavors from the stock.
For that extra touch of indulgence, add 1 cup of heavy cream at this stage and stir until combined, turning the dish even creamier.

5. Cook the Broccoli:

While the orzo is cooking, it’s time to prepare the broccoli for its starring role in this casserole.

Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli florets and cook for 6–8 minutes until they’re bright green and tender.
Drain the broccoli using a colander and set it aside to be added to the orzo later.

6. Combine and Prepare for Baking:

With all the components ready, it’s time to combine them into a cheesy masterpiece.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for the casserole.
In the skillet with the cooked orzo, add the broccoli and half of the shredded cheese, stirring gently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to enhance the flavors.

7. Assemble the Casserole:

The magic is coming together.

Transfer the orzo and broccoli mixture into a greased baking dish (a 9×13-inch dish works wonderfully for this recipe).
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top for that perfectly melty finish.
For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs over the cheese, creating a delightful crunch when baked.

8. Bake and Serve:

Time to bake the casserole to golden, bubbling perfection.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly, signaling that it’s ready to serve.
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheesy goodness will be irresistible!

With each step, you’re building layers of flavor, and soon you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Casserole is bound to become a family favorite!