Name: Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp plant-based butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 tsp dijon mustard; 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond); 2 heaping cups broccoli florets, cut into smaller pieces; 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar (such as Violife); 1/4 cup vegan parmesan shreds (such as Follow Your Heart), plus more for topping

If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender orzo pasta swimming in a luscious, creamy cheddar sauce, studded with vibrant green broccoli and subtle hints of garlic and paprika. It’s a simple, cozy meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli creates a perfect balance of cheesy richness and fresh vegetable brightness that keeps every bite exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and small white dishes arranged on a white marbled surface. There is one large clear bowl filled with small broccoli florets, a medium clear bowl with shredded white and yellow cheese mixed together, and a small clear bowl with grated orange carrots. Another medium clear bowl contains dry yellow noodles. Two small white dishes hold minced garlic and a small amount of brown spice powder. A whole peeled onion lies on the surface near a white cup filled with milk and a clear measuring cup holding light brown broth. A silver spoon rests nearby. The overall scene looks ready for cooking ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe truly stand out, the ingredients are straightforward but each one carries an important role. From the gentle sweetness of diced onion to the comforting creaminess of plant-based cheddar, every element contributes to a dish that’s flavorful, colorful, and richly textured.

Plant-based butter: Adds a creamy base and depth of flavor, perfect for sautéing the veggies.
Medium onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and a bit of bite to the dish when softened.
Minced garlic: Offers that aromatic punch that makes everything taste homemade and inviting.
Shredded carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast to the greens.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a gentle spice and warmth without overpowering.
Paprika: A smoky hint that enhances the dish’s savory profile.
Uncooked orzo: The delightful pasta base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
Vegetable broth (low sodium): Keeps the dish light but adds savory depth.
Dijon mustard: A little tang that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese.
Non-dairy milk (unsweetened): Creates the creamy sauce without overpowering sweetness—soy or almond works beautifully.
Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they add texture and a lovely green contrast.
Shredded cheddar: Use a plant-based version for melty, gooey cheesiness that warms the soul.
Parmesan shreds: Adds a sharp, nutty finish; plant-based versions work great to keep it vegan.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the vegan butter in a medium or large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until it’s softened and starting to get a lovely golden-brown tint, about 5 to 7 minutes. This gentle caramelization builds a sweet, savory foundation for your Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe that you won’t want to skip.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic, shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cooking these together for a few minutes lets the spices bloom, releasing a fragrant layer of flavor that will infuse throughout the dish. The carrots add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that makes each bite interesting.

Step 3: Incorporate Orzo and Broth

Pour the uncooked orzo and vegetable broth into the pot along with the dijon mustard. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for five minutes. This is where the orzo starts to soak up the savory broth, creating a tender, flavorful pasta base that sets the tone for this incredible Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe.

Step 4: Add Milk and Broccoli

Pour in the unsweetened non-dairy milk and add the broccoli florets into the pot. Stir everything together and cover again, letting it cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. This step softens the broccoli just enough so it’s tender but still has a bit of bite and that vibrant green color that looks so inviting.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan until everything is melted, creamy, and luxuriously cheesy. The cheeses bind the flavors and textures together, turning this simple dish into an indulgent, satisfying meal that feels like a special treat, yet comes together in under 20 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Immediately

Enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe piping hot. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or some nutritional yeast on top adds an extra dimension if you like. Dig in right away for the best creamy, comforting experience!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly ground black pepper is a simple but perfect garnish that adds a little hint of heat without competing with the cheesy sauce. You can also sprinkle on some extra parmesan or a dusting of nutritional yeast for a cheesy boost. For color pops, fresh parsley or chives work beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is a wholesome meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, light sides. A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess perfectly. For extra heartiness, roasted cherry tomatoes or garlic bread can round out the meal without overshadowing the flavors of the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a stunning presentation that impresses guests. You can also top it with toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch or stir in some toasted nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, for texture and nuttiness. Bright edible flowers also make it look gourmet and whimsical.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld more overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before storing to help preserve the creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to save it for longer, this dish can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of broccoli may soften once thawed, but the flavor remains delicious and comforting.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm the orzo gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of non-dairy milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking and keep those comforting flavors vibrant as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use regular dairy cheese instead of plant-based cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re not vegan, feel free to swap in regular cheddar and parmesan. The flavors will be just as delicious, maybe even richer, while keeping everything else the same.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the orzo with a gluten-free small pasta or even quinoa. Cooking times might vary slightly, but the vibrant, cheesy essence of this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe will remain intact.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Mushrooms, peas, or spinach would be great additions. Just add them in during the broccoli step so they cook through without losing their texture and brightness.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To up the heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the other spices. A little goes a long way and adds a wonderful kick to the creamy, cheesy orzo.

Can this be made in advance for meal prep?

Yes, this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe is a great meal prep option. Just store in individual portions in the fridge and reheat as needed. Adding a splash of non-dairy milk or broth when reheating helps keep it creamy and fresh-tasting.

Final Thoughts

If comfort food had a tasty name, it would surely be Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe. It’s quick, simple, and packed with wholesome, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a dish that feels both special and everyday. Give it a try—you’ll probably find yourself turning to this recipe again and again on cozy nights or busy weeknights when you want something both easy and delicious.

“`