Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Name: Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Jessica Baker

Update : January 17, 2026

Creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo dish served in a bowl with fresh broccoli

why make this recipe

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the goodness of broccoli with creamy cheddar cheese and hearty orzo pasta, all made in one pot for easy cleanup. This dish is not only tasty but also a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and packed with flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.

how to make Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Ingredients :

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Freshly ground black pepper and extra cheddar for garnish

Directions :

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Add Garlic & Toast Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, cooking for 1 minute. Add the orzo pasta and toast for another 1-2 minutes.
Simmer with Broth & Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheese & Cream: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.
Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra cheddar and black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Serve this creamy orzo dish warm, topped with extra cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. It makes a wonderful main course or a side dish. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complete your meal.

how to store Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to reheat it, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken when stored.

tips to make Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

For added flavor, try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Make sure to stir occasionally while it cooks to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onion.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a blend of milk and Greek yogurt.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this dish and will cook quickly along with the orzo.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cheese and substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk.

How long does it take to cook orzo?

Orzo usually cooks in about 8-10 minutes, similar to regular pasta, but always refer to the package instructions for the best results.