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A close-up of creamy Parmesan orzo with broccoli, featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with vibrant green broccoli florets.

Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Broccoli


  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in these crispy Doritos, filled with a creamy blend of cheese and bacon for the perfect balance of crunch and savory goodness. A must-try for parties or cravings!


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon butter

Fresh parsley or lemon zest for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the orzo pasta, ensuring it gets well-coated with the oil and garlic mixture.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes.
  • Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet, stir to combine, and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked to your liking.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Add the butter and stir until melted and well incorporated.
  • Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Make it Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese, and replace butter with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
  • Boost the Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. If using chicken, cook it first in the pan before adding the orzo, then set it aside and mix it back in at the end.
  • Enhance the Flavor: For a deeper umami taste, stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of white wine when adding the broth. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten up the dish!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: One-Pan
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired