Broccoli Cheese Orzo + Protein

• servings: About 4

Ingredients

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

– 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup heavy cream OR HALF/HALF

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

- add chicken/chicken meatball/sausage for protein

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and garlic powder to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

3. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, making sure it is well-coated with the oils and onions.

4. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the broccoli florets.

5. Cover the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally.

6. Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and well combined.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese and freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.

8. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy one-pot broccoli cheddar orzo