Broccoli Cheddar Orzo: A Creamy and Comforting Dish!

This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is a simple, tasty, and comforting one-pot vegetarian meal that everyone will love. Inspired by broccoli cheddar soup, this dish is super easy to make and comes together in less than 40 minutes.

It’s packed with veggies and is very kid-friendly. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side dish—it works great as both. You don’t want to miss out on this recipe! If you’re looking for new and healthy recipes, you’ve found a gem. This is one of the best orzo dishes I’ve ever tried, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Even if you’re new to cooking, don’t worry—this recipe is very easy. Once you take that first bite, it’s sure to become a favourite.

This delicious vegan broccoli cheddar orzo is flavoured perfectly. It’s a cosy and comforting meal, perfect for a quick dinner or as a side dish. If you love broccoli cheddar soup, you’ll love this cheesy broccoli orzo dish. This is the perfect recipe for a one-pot meal during the week. It also makes a great side dish for other meals.

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

This tasty vegan broccoli cheddar orzo combines soft orzo pasta, crunchy broccoli, and a creamy vegan cheddar sauce. It's a cozy and comforting meal that's perfect for a quick dinner or side dish. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. If it seems dry, just add a tablespoon of water. I don't recommend freezing this dish. You can eat it on its own or with a sandwich, like my tempeh sandwich. It also pairs well with roasted veggies like broccoli and zucchini or asparagus and carrots!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 5

Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Oven-safe casserole dish

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp extra virgin Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 Yellow onion chopped
• 1 cup Mushrooms roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp Salted butter
• 1 lb dry Orzo pasta gluten-free if needed
• 2 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves plus extra for topping
• 3 cups Low sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 3 cups Broccoli florets roughly chopped
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper adjust to taste
• Zest of 1/2 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

 

• Turn your oven to 425°F.
• Heat the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it smells nice. Toss in the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften.
• Put in the butter, orzo, broccoli, and thyme to the pot. Cook everything for about 5 minutes until the orzo turns golden and smells toasty.
• Pour in the wine and vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is cooked but still a bit firm.
• Stir in the lemon zest, milk, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. If your pot isn’t safe for the oven, transfer the mix to a casserole dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts. Then, switch to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes until the cheese gets crispy.
• Serve warm with fresh thyme and basil on top.

Notes

• Follow the recipe until step 5. Let it cool, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake as directed.
• Let it cool, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for 2-3 hours. Bake as directed.

Nutrition Facts:

How Long Does it Take to Cook Orzo?

Orzo takes about 8-10 minutes to cook. To make it, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the orzo. Cook it until it’s al dente, which means it’s firm but cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, just like the package instructions say.

Is Orzo Different From Pasta?

Orzo might look like rice, but it’s a type of pasta. It’s a small, rice-shaped pasta known as “patina.” Orzo is often used in soups, but it’s also perfect for salads and one-pot dishes because it cooks so quickly.

Does Orzo Need to Be Rinsed?

No, you don’t need to rinse orzo unless you’re using it in a cold salad. Rinsing can remove a light coating of starch that helps sauces and seasonings stick to the pasta. If you’re serving it hot, like in this recipe, there’s no need to rinse it.