One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake Recipe
Who doesn’t love a comforting, cheesy dish that comes together in just one skillet? This One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. With tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this recipe is a hit for both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delectable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
- Prepare the Orzo: Measure out the orzo pasta.
- Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets.
- Shred the Cheese: Shred the cheddar cheese and grate the Parmesan cheese.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo and Broccoli
- Heat the Broth: In a large skillet, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, push the orzo and broccoli to one side. Add the butter to the empty side of the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Add the Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season the Sauce: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Step 3: Combine and Bake
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Mix Everything Together: Combine the cheese sauce with the orzo and broccoli in the skillet, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top of the dish.
- Serve: Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Sides
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Salad: A fresh Caesar salad makes a great complement to this cheesy dish.
- Grilled Chicken: Add some grilled chicken on top for extra protein.
Conclusion
This One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is the perfect comfort food that’s simple to make and full of flavor. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The creamy cheese sauce, tender orzo, and fresh broccoli come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your household!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, like ditalini or small shells.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, bake it in the oven until hot and bubbly.
3. What other vegetables can I use?
You can add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) dish. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake Recipe
Who doesn’t love a comforting, cheesy dish that comes together in just one skillet? This One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. With tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this recipe is a hit for both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delectable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup roughly chopped mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 pound dry orzo pasta (use gluten free, if needed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for topping
- 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine such, as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper more or less to taste
- zest of 1/2 a lemon
- 1/2 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated asiago or manchego cheese
- fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the onion and cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened, 2-3 minutes. Add the butter, orzo, broccoli, and thyme, and cook until golden and toasted, 5 minutes. Add the wine, broth, bay leaf, garlic powder, cayenne, and a large pinch each of salt and pepper. Simmer 8-10 minutes until the orzo is al dente, stirring often.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon zest, milk, and 1/2 cup of the cheddar. If needed, transfer the orzo to an oven-safe casserole dish. Scatter the remaining cheeses overtop of the casserole.
- Transfer to the oven and bake 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Switch the oven to broil and broil 1-2 minutes, until the cheese on top is becoming crispy. Serve warm with fresh thyme and basil.