Is orzo pasta or rice?

Despite the fact orzo looks like rice, it is, in fact, a pasta. Therefore orzo is not gluten-free.

Can I use frozen broccoli to make creamy broccoli orzo?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli to make this one-pan creamy broccoli orzo. Be sure to thaw the broccoli first and pat it dry. Then add it to the pot of orzo cooking when there is about 5 minutes left for the orzo to finish.

What are the best cheese to pair with broccoli and orzo?

I recommend using cheddar cheese, jack, Colby or parmesan cheese for creamy broccoli orzo.

Creamy Broccoli Orzo - The Real Recipes

Name: Creamy Broccoli Orzo
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 tsp. table salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 tsp. black pepper, plus more to taste; 1 medium (8 oz.) head broccoli, stem diced and florets cut into bite-size pieces; 8 oz. orzo (about 1 cup); 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low or reduced sodium); 2 oz. cream cheese; 3 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp), plus more for garnish; parsley, for garnish

Description

Creamy Broccoli Orzo is a family-friendly one-pan side dish that is packed with fresh broccoli, orzo pasta and aromatics. It is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that is a perfect side for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp. table salt, plus more to taste
1/4 tsp. black pepper, plus more to taste
1 medium (8 oz.) head broccoli, stem diced and florets cut into bite-size pieces
8 oz. orzo (about 1 cup)
4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low or reduced sodium)
2 oz. cream cheese
3 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp), plus more for garnish
parsley, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat oil over medium in a large skillet or braiser pan then add the onion, salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until just starting to turn translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the diced broccoli stems and cook until bright green, about 1 minute.
Add the orzo and stir until well coated in the aromatics and oil. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook, covered, according to package instructions but add the broccoli florets 5 minutes before the orzo is finished cooking. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan frequently to prevent the orzo from sticking.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cream cheese. There should be plenty of residual heat to melt the cream cheese. Then stir in the shredded cheese. Continue to stir until creamy, similar to risotto. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if desired, and serve garnish with more cheese and parsley, if desired.

Notes

It’s important to scrape the bottom of the pan as the orzo cooks to prevent sticking.
You can use a low-fat cream cheese if you are watching your saturated fat.
You can also use heavy cream or mascarpone instead of cream cheese.
Use mild or sharp cheddar, depending on your preference. You can even use jack cheese or parmesan.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months, though freezing is not recommended as it will dry out. When reheating leftovers, be sure to add a splash of water or milk as orzo dries out as it absorbs the cheesy sauce. You should also adjust seasoning with more salt when reheating.
Adding the broccoli stem bulks up the veggies in this recipe. It will take a bit longer to cook that’s why it’s best to add it when cooking the onions.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sides
Method: simmering
Cuisine: American