Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, red pepper flakes, lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 2: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and smells nutty.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is almost tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Uncover the skillet and stir in the broccoli florets. If the skillet seems dry, add a splash more broth (about ¼ cup). Cover again and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the orzo is fully cooked.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also enhance the flavors.
Notes
For best results, use fresh broccoli. If using frozen, add it directly to the skillet after the orzo has cooked for 8 minutes and increase cooking time slightly if needed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: broccoli orzo skillet, one-pan dinner, weeknight meal, easy pasta recipe, creamy orzo, healthy dinner, vegetarian option, quick recipe
