Broccoli Orzo Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. Tender orzo pasta is combined with vibrant broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce, then baked to perfection with a golden crust. This dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. The flavors of the cheesy sauce and tender-crisp broccoli blend beautifully with the orzo, making it a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook the orzo and broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the flour and mustard powder, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir the cooked orzo and broccoli into the cheese sauce, mixing until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for extra crunch.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the bake cool slightly before serving.
This Broccoli Orzo Bake is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, offering a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potluck gatherings!
