# **Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli: A Quick, Comforting Delight**
When you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, **Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli** is the perfect solution. This dish is a harmonious blend of tender orzo pasta, crisp broccoli florets, and a luscious Parmesan sauce that’s infused with garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it ideal as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, share tips for perfecting your dish, and explore creative ways to serve and store it. Let’s get cooking!
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
1. **Creamy and Cheesy:** The Parmesan sauce is rich, velvety, and utterly satisfying.
2. **Quick and Easy:** Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
3. **One-Pan Wonder:** Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
4. **Nutritious and Delicious:** Packed with broccoli, it’s a sneaky way to add more greens to your meal.
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## **The Ingredients: Simple and Flavorful**
### **For the Orzo and Broccoli:**
– **Orzo Pasta:** Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the flavors of the sauce.
– **Broccoli Florets:** Adds a fresh, crisp texture and a boost of nutrition.
– **Olive Oil:** Provides a rich, smooth base for sautéing.
– **Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:** Add depth of flavor and a subtle heat.
– **Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth):** Enhances the savory notes of the dish.
### **For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:**
– **Heavy Cream (or Milk):** Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
– **Parmesan Cheese:** Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.
– **Butter:** Adds richness and a silky finish.
– **Salt and Black Pepper:** Season to taste.
– **Fresh Parsley or Lemon Zest (Optional):** Adds a bright, fresh garnish.
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Cook the Orzo and Broccoli**
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat **2 tablespoons olive oil** over medium heat.
2. Add **2 cloves minced garlic** and **½ teaspoon red pepper flakes**, sautéing for **30 seconds** until fragrant.
3. Stir in **1 cup orzo pasta** and toast for **1–2 minutes** until lightly golden.
4. Pour in **2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)** and bring to a simmer.
5. Add **2 cups broccoli florets**, cover, and let cook for **8–10 minutes**, stirring occasionally.
### **2. Make It Creamy and Cheesy!**
1. Once the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, reduce the heat to low.
2. Stir in **½ cup heavy cream**, **½ cup grated Parmesan cheese**, **1 tablespoon butter**, **½ teaspoon salt**, and **¼ teaspoon black pepper**.
3. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
### **3. Serve and Enjoy!**
1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or extra Parmesan for an elegant touch.
3. Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
– **Pair with Protein:** Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete meal.
– **Add a Side:** Complement the dish with a side salad or garlic bread.
– **Vegetarian Main Course:** Enjoy it as a vegetarian dish by adding extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
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## **Storage and Make-Ahead Tips**
– **Refrigerate:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to **3 days**.
– **Reheat:** Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
– **Freezing:** Not recommended, as the texture of the orzo may change.
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## **Why This Recipe is a Must-Try**
This Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that’s both quick and easy to make. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main course, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home.
So, grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare!
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💬 **Have you tried this Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli? Share your thoughts, tips, or photos in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other with new ideas.** ⬇️🥦✨