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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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4.4 from 8 reviews

A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Orzo made with plant-based ingredients. This easy stovetop recipe combines tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and dairy-free cheddar for a delicious vegan meal ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Seasonings

  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika

Pasta and Liquids

  • 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)

Vegetables and Cheese

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onion: In a medium or large pot, heat the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly browned, developing a rich flavor base.
  2. Add Garlic, Carrots, and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for a few minutes to combine flavors and slightly soften the carrots.
  3. Cook Orzo: Pour in the uncooked orzo pasta and vegetable broth. Add the dijon mustard, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to start cooking the orzo.
  4. Add Milk and Broccoli: Stir in the unsweetened non-dairy milk and broccoli florets until fully combined. Cover again and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the orzo is fully cooked.
  5. Add Cheeses: Remove the lid and stir in the vegan cheddar and parmesan shreds. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce that coats the orzo and broccoli evenly.
  6. Serve: Enjoy the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo immediately. Optionally, sprinkle with extra vegan parmesan, freshly ground pepper, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Notes

  • Use high-quality vegan cheeses for best melting and flavor experience.
  • Adjust the amount of vegetable broth or plant-based milk to achieve your preferred creaminess.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta shapes like rice or corn-based pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of non-dairy milk.
  • Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish and balance the richness.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/broccoli-cheddar-orzo-recipe/