Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli

Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Orzo lovers, get ready for a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion! This Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli is a quick and easy dish that combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, garlic, and parmesan cheese into a rich, comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a flavorful side dish, or a delicious meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about creamy pasta dishes—especially when they’re packed with nutritious ingredients and bold flavors. Orzo, a small, rice-shaped pasta, is the perfect base for this recipe because it absorbs flavors beautifully and creates a luscious, risotto-like texture. Combined with fresh broccoli, garlic, and parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, nuttiness, and savory goodness.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes with a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, a comforting side dish, or even a meal prep option, this Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli is guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

To make this creamy and flavorful orzo dish, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter

Optional Add-Ins

½ teaspoon lemon zest (for a fresh citrusy kick)
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (for extra depth of flavor)
½ teaspoon dried oregano or basil
Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli

1. Cook the Orzo

In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns lightly golden. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta.

2. Add Garlic and Broccoli

Once the orzo is toasted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped broccoli florets and cook for another minute to slightly soften them.

3. Simmer with Broth

Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Make it Creamy

Once the orzo has absorbed most of the broth, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and the sauce starts to thicken.

5. Add Parmesan and Butter

Turn off the heat and stir in ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of butter. Mix until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy texture. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer the creamy orzo to a serving dish and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a main course or a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Orzo

Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the pasta before cooking adds a nutty depth of flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged versions.
Adjust the Creaminess: For a richer dish, use heavy cream; for a lighter version, substitute milk or half-and-half.
Cook to Perfection: Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
Brighten the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a touch of freshness.

Cooking Tips

To elevate your Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli, try these pro cooking tips:

Use Chicken Broth: Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth for an extra depth of flavor.
Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
Go Green: Add spinach, kale, or peas for more greens and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy, cheesy orzo dish pairs beautifully with:

Grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete meal
Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce
Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or bell peppers
A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 360
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Vitamin C: 30%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 8%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Freeze: This dish is best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! You can substitute orzo with couscous, risotto rice, or small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, swap orzo with gluten-free orzo or quinoa for a similar texture.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli is the perfect dish for those craving comfort food with a healthy twist. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and nutritious broccoli, it’s a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make. Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion! 🍽️