Description
Get ready for a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake! This casserole is pure comfort food, easy to make, and perfect for bringing everyone to the table. You will love this simple dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets, small
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is mostly tender.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and heavy cream. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of the cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish if the skillet is not oven-safe, or leave it in the skillet. Top with the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty bake!
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli florets; add them directly with the heavy cream.
- For extra flavor, stir in a pinch of nutmeg with the cream.
- If you prefer a tangier cheese, substitute some of the cheddar with Gruyère.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 550
- Sugar: Approx. 5g
- Sodium: Approx. 600mg (varies with broth)
- Fat: Approx. 35g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 17g
- Trans Fat: Approx. 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 40g
- Fiber: Approx. 3g
- Protein: Approx. 22g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 80mg