Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Casserole

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Casserole: Easy Comfort Food

Looking for a comforting and easy dinner? This broccoli cheddar orzo casserole combines the classic flavor of broccoli cheddar with the delightful texture of orzo pasta for a super rich and satisfying meal!

• Easy Orzo Casserole Recipe: Simple steps for a delicious baked dish.
• Broccoli Cheddar Orzo: A creamy and cheesy pasta bake with broccoli.
• Comfort Food Casserole Recipes: Perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.
• Quick Dinner Ideas: Fast and flavorful weeknight meals.
• Vegetarian Casserole Recipes: A hearty and cheesy meat-free option.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Casserole – A Comforting, Cheesy Dinner Bake

DifficultyEasy

Servings6

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time30 minutes

Total time45 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Orzo Base:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Cheddar Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions:

• 1

  Cook the Orzo and Broccoli:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook orzo according to package instructions (about 8 minutes).
  • Add broccoli to the pot during the final 2 minutes of cooking.
  • Drain and set aside.
• 2

  Prepare the Creamy Cheddar Sauce:

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Add butter to the skillet and melt completely.
  • Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually pour in milk and vegetable broth, whisking constantly.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
• 3

  Assemble the Casserole:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked orzo, broccoli, and cheddar sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter.
  • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.

   

• 4

  Bake and Serve:

  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy.
  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula

Recipe Notes and Variations:

Substitutions:

• Swap cheddar with Gruyère for a richer, nutty flavor.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
• For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas.

Pro Tips:

• To prevent the orzo from sticking, stir it frequently while cooking.
• Steam the broccoli separately for a brighter green color and firmer texture.
• For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional cheddar before baking.

FAQs:

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

• Absolutely! Simply thaw and drain well before adding to the casserole.

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

• Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Storage & Reheating Instructions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Freeze assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Calories	375
Carbohydrates	45g
Cholesterol	55mg
Fat	16g
Fiber	4g
Protein	17g
Saturated Fat	8g
Sodium	520mg
Sugar	4g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	6g

History, Evolution, and Inspiration

This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Casserole combines the classic flavors of broccoli cheddar soup with the comforting richness of baked pasta. Originating from Mediterranean roots, orzo has become a favorite in home kitchens worldwide, thanks to its quick cooking time and versatile texture. Adding broccoli brings both vibrant color and a nutritional boost, while the sharp cheddar sauce ties everything together in creamy perfection.

The Art of Cooking the Recipe

Cooking the orzo and broccoli together streamlines the process while ensuring the pasta absorbs flavor. The cheddar sauce — rich and velvety — creates the ultimate comfort food vibe, while the crispy breadcrumb topping offers a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Interesting Things About the Recipe

This recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. It’s an ideal vegetarian main course or a hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled steak.

Overview of the Parts of the Recipe

The casserole comes together in three simple steps:

• Cooking the orzo and broccoli for a tender bite
• Whipping up the creamy cheddar sauce for a smooth, cheesy base
• Adding a golden breadcrumb topping for that irresistible crunch

What Occasions It’s Good For

This cozy casserole shines at family dinners, holiday potlucks, and even as a comforting meal-prep option. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into picky eaters’ plates.

Why It’s the Perfect Recipe

With just 45 minutes of total cooking time, this casserole offers a stress-free yet indulgent dinner solution. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor — everything you crave in a comfort food dish.

Looking for other Orzo Recipes – Check these out!

• Savory Turkey Meatballs with Tomato Orzo
• Garlicky Parmesan Shrimp Orzo
• Quick and Easy Microwave Orzo: A Perfect Side Dish Recipe