Description
A creamy, cheesy side dish combining tender orzo, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200g) orzo
- 2 cups (300g) broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk
- 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups (960ml) vegetable broth
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. Use a steamer basket or microwave in a covered bowl with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Drain the orzo and broccoli separately, and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Gently fold the cooked orzo and steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well coated. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
[‘Don’t overcook the orzo; it’s best when slightly al dente.’, ‘Steam broccoli to preserve its vibrant green color and slight crunch.’, ‘Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Season gradually to avoid over-seasoning.’, ‘Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.’]
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 15
Keywords: broccoli cheddar orzo, cheesy side dish, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, family-friendly, vegetarian side dish