Name: Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta, dry; 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh, trimmed into bite-size pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred; 2 cloves garlic, minced ((about 1 teaspoon)); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes ((adjust to taste)); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, comforting, and quick to pull together — Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli is the kind of weeknight winner that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes. This dish combines tiny, toothsome orzo with tender broccoli florets and a silky Parmesan finish for a meal that’s both cozy and bright. Fun fact: orzo is actually pasta shaped like rice, not a grain, which makes it a playful swap when you want pasta that feels lighter than spaghetti. If you enjoy rich, garlicky pasta, also check my take on creamy garlic Parmesan orzo for another quick comfort option. Simple to make, family-friendly, and easy to customize, this recipe becomes a staple the moment you try it.

What is Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli?

What’s in a name? Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli sounds like a dinner that knows what it wants: small pasta, lots of comfort, and a cheesy green sidekick. Why call it that — because orzo gets cozy with broccoli and Parmesan in one bowl, of course. Who knows, maybe someone once whispered “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” while stirring the pot, and the name stuck. It’s part pasta, part veggie side, entirely satisfying. If curiosity wins, give it a go and see why this simple combo makes weeknights happier — you might even bookmark the original recipe page for your next meal plan.

Why You’ll Love This

Comforty creaminess: The sauce clings to each grain of orzo, delivering a luscious, velvety bite that’s rich without being heavy. The Parmesan adds nutty depth and a savory finish that keeps you reaching for seconds.
Budget-friendly and fast: Orzo, broccoli, and a bit of cheese are pantry- and fridge-friendly staples. Compared to ordering takeout or buying premade sides, this homemade dish saves money while tasting fresher.
Versatile flavors and toppings: Finish with a squeeze of lemon, a hit of red pepper flakes for warmth, or toasted nuts for crunch — every option brightens the plate. If you like pairing vegetables and cheese, try this with a simple baked protein like the baked Caesar chicken with a creamy Parmesan sauce for an easy complete meal.

This trio of reasons — texture, thrift, and flavor — makes it irresistible. Now go make it; your future self will thank you for a fast, satisfying dinner.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward: cook the orzo until al dente, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil, quickly cook broccoli until just tender, then fold everything together with Parmesan for a silky finish. Expect about 10 minutes active prep and 10–12 minutes cooking time — a true 20- to 25-minute dinner. The standout element is the creamy Parmesan coating that binds the orzo and broccoli for a comforting, cohesive bite.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta, dry
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh, trimmed into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
While the orzo cooks, heat a large pot (the same one if you prefer fewer dishes) over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned — keep the heat moderate so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Add 2 cups of broccoli florets and toss for 3–4 minutes. If you like broccoli with a little bite, stop when it turns bright green and is fork-tender; for softer broccoli, cook an extra minute.
Return the drained orzo to the pot with the broccoli. Add the reserved 1/4 cup pasta water a little at a time to loosen the mixture if needed.
Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and coats the orzo and broccoli in a creamy, glossy sauce. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Remove from heat and let sit for a minute to thicken slightly. Serve warm, finishing with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli

What to Serve With

Simple green salad: A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
Roasted chicken or fish: Pan-roasted salmon or lemon-garlic chicken pairs beautifully and keeps the meal balanced.
Crunchy bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread for mopping up any leftover cheesy sauce.
Light soup: A clear vegetable or tomato basil soup complements the dish for a fuller starter-main pairing.
Beverage options: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a bright sparkling water with lemon keeps the palate refreshed.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it melting smoothly. Freshly grated yields the creamiest sauce.
Don’t overcook the broccoli: Aim for bright green and just-tender florets to preserve texture and flavor.
Save pasta water: The starchy water helps create a silky sauce without adding cream — add a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Adjust heat carefully: If you’re sensitive to spice, halve the red pepper flakes or omit them; they add a nice background warmth but aren’t essential.
Add protein: Stir in cooked shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or white beans for extra substance and nutrition.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce a bit loose by adding a splash of olive oil before sealing.
Freezing: This dish is best refrigerated rather than frozen since the texture of broccoli and the creamy sauce can change after freezing. If you must freeze, spoon portions into a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce, stirring frequently. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between, and add a teaspoon of water or olive oil if it dries out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes. Thaw and drain excess water before sautéing, and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushy florets. Frozen broccoli can be a convenient, budget-friendly substitute.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can make a dairy-free version by using a plant-based Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast and a splash of unsweetened almond milk to create creaminess. Olive oil and pasta water can help bind the sauce.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

You can prepare the orzo and broccoli separately and combine them just before serving. Store components in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days for best texture.

How do I make the dish more filling?

Add cooked protein like shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or crispy pancetta for extra substance. Toasted pine nuts or almonds also add satisfying crunch and calories.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water or warm milk a tablespoon at a time until silky. If too thin, simmer briefly while stirring until it reduces and coats the orzo.

Conclusion

Creamy Orzo with Parmesan Broccoli is an easy, affordable, and comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss — perfect for busy weeknights or simple weekend dinners. It proves that humble ingredients can create something special: creamy texture, bright green broccoli, and savory Parmesan all in one pan. If you want to explore a similar one-pot version with extra broccoli focus, check out this One-Pot Broccoli Parmesan Orzo for inspiration and variations. Give this recipe a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy how quickly it becomes a favorite.