Description
This One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines comforting orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and two kinds of cheese, all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup.
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
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
3 cups broccoli florets
roughly chopped
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
zest of 1/2 a lemon
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated asiago or manchego cheese
fresh basil
for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the butter until melted, then add the orzo and fresh thyme, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and white wine, then add the broccoli, bay leaf, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove the bay leaf, and stir in the milk and cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with additional thyme and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can use more milk. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake, easy dinner recipes, cheesy orzo, vegetarian meals, comfort food