One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake Recipe
A cozy, cheesy, and veggie-packed comfort dish made in just one skillet! Creamy orzo, sharp cheddar, fresh broccoli, and a hint of lemon bring this quick and hearty meal together with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 1 lb dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Zest of ½ lemon
- ½ cup whole milk or canned coconut milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup manchego cheese grated
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- ½ cup dry white wine optional
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh basil for serving
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 3 minutes. You’re building the savory base for the dish here.
- Melt the butter in the skillet before adding the orzo, broccoli florets, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes to lightly toast the orzo, enhancing its nutty flavor. The broccoli gets a head start on cooking and maintains some crunch.
- Pour in the white wine and stir as it simmers for about a minute. Add the vegetable broth, bay leaf, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, then cook and stir occasionally for another 8-10 minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
- Once the orzo is al dente, mix in the lemon zest and milk for added creaminess. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and manchego cheese until it melts into the dish, creating a gooey, cheesy result.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Top the skillet with the remaining cheese and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes. For a bubbly golden finish, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes—but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the skillet and scatter fresh basil across the top. Serve it warm and enjoy all that cheesy, creamy goodness!
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: Prepare up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Freezer Friendly: Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake fresh.
- Broil Watch: Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.