Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will become your go-to crowd-pleaser. The best part? It uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it a stress-free dinner option for busy nights.
Let the irresistible aroma of garlic, thyme, and melted cheese fill your home as you create a dish that’s perfect for all seasons. You’ll love how effortlessly this recipe transforms a weekday meal into something special and memorable.
The Perfect Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Orzo
Each ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully selected to create a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrition. These simple yet flavorful components come together to make a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (16 oz) broccoli: The star of this dish, broccoli adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a dose of essential vitamins. Cut into florets for the perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 6.3 ounces orzo: This versatile pasta provides a creamy base that perfectly complements the cheese and broccoli. Orzo cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 1.8 ounces shredded Italian cheese: The rich, nutty taste of Italian cheese brings the dish together with a velvety finish. Parmesan or Pecorino are excellent options.
- 1 packet vegetable stock: Enhances the depth of flavor and gives the orzo its deliciously savory taste. A high-quality stock makes all the difference.
- 1/2 onion: Adds sweetness and aroma to the dish. Dice it finely for even cooking and a smooth texture.
- 1/2 sprig thyme: Fresh thyme infuses the orzo with a subtle herbal note, enhancing the overall flavor. It’s the perfect complement to the cheese and garlic.
- 2 garlic cloves: Garlic adds a bold and aromatic kick. Finely chopped, it blends seamlessly into the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Used to dissolve the vegetable stock, ensuring the orzo cooks to perfection and absorbs all the savory goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil creates a fragrant base for sautéing the onion and garlic, adding a hint of richness to the dish.
- A pinch of salt and pepper: These final touches highlight the flavors of each ingredient, balancing the dish and making it irresistible.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels luxurious yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Every bite delivers a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and fresh flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Broccoli Orzo
Creating this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these detailed steps to ensure each bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Prep the Ingredients
- Start with the basics: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt to enhance the broccoli’s natural flavor.
- Dice the onion: Peel and cut it in half, then finely dice one half into small, even cubes for smooth sautéing.
- Chop the garlic: Peel the cloves and finely mince them to ensure their bold flavor blends seamlessly into the dish.
- Prepare the broccoli: Cut it into bite-sized florets, keeping them uniform to ensure even cooking.
- Finely chop the thyme: This herb will infuse the dish with a subtle, fresh aroma that complements the cheese and garlic perfectly.
Prepare the Stock
- Heat the water: In a small pot, warm 1 1/2 cups of water over high heat.
- Dissolve the vegetable stock: Stir in the stock packet until fully dissolved. Let it boil to concentrate the flavor, then turn off the heat and set it aside.
Cook the Orzo
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté over low heat for 2 minutes, releasing their fragrant aroma.
- Add the thyme and orzo: Sprinkle in the chopped thyme, then add the orzo. Stir for 1 minute over medium-low heat to toast the pasta slightly, enhancing its flavor.
- Cook with stock: Pour the prepared vegetable stock into the skillet. Cover and let the orzo simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook the Broccoli
- Boil the florets: Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Cover the pot and cook for 6–8 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
- Drain thoroughly: Use a colander to drain the broccoli, removing any excess water.
Combine and Serve
- Bring it all together: Add the cooked broccoli and half of the shredded cheese to the orzo in the skillet. Stir gently until the cheese melts, creating a creamy consistency.
- Season to taste: Sprinkle with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference for the perfect balance of flavors.
Plate and Garnish
- Serve with style: Divide the cheesy orzo onto individual plates or bowls for a beautiful presentation.
- Add the finishing touch: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a final layer of gooey, melty goodness.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of this quick, wholesome, and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion!