Sunday Creamy Broccoli Orzo Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Broccoli Orzo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Sunday Creamy Broccoli Orzo Bake! It’s become my go-to dish for gatherings and cozy family dinners. The creamy texture combined with the delightful crunch of broccoli makes every bite utterly satisfying. On lazy afternoons, I find myself whipping this up as a comfort food that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens, and the flavors meld beautifully with a hint of garlic and cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:49:12.540Z

When I first tried making this creamy bake, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it was. I often roast the broccoli beforehand to enhance its flavor and give it that perfect texture. The addition of garlic adds a depth that elevates the dish, while the orzo provides a wonderful chew that balances with the creaminess.

Over time, I've played with different cheeses, and I highly recommend a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for the best results. Don't skimp on the seasoning either; a pinch of nutmeg can transform the dish from good to exceptional!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and delights
Quick to prepare, perfect for a Sunday family meal
Versatile: great as a side or a main dish

      

Mastering the Creamy Texture

The combination of heavy cream and cheeses creates a luscious, creamy texture that’s the hallmark of this bake. When mixing the ingredients, ensure that the cream is poured evenly over the orzo and broccoli for a uniform coating. You want each bite to offer that delightful richness, so take the time to mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. If you prefer a lighter version, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream without losing too much creaminess.

Cooking the orzo to al dente is crucial since it will absorb some of the cream sauce while baking. This prevents the final dish from becoming overly mushy. You’ll know the pasta is ready when it’s firm to bite yet tender enough to enjoy. Draining it promptly and mixing it with the hot sautéed broccoli helps to keep the dish warm during assembly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before it even hits the oven.

Making It Your Own

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can easily accommodate various add-ins or substitutions. For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding sautéed leeks or sun-dried tomatoes alongside the broccoli. If you're looking to up the protein, diced cooked chicken or white beans make excellent additions. For a gourmet twist, try incorporating some fresh herbs like thyme or basil; they pair beautifully with the cheese and cream.

You can also make this dish gluten-free by swapping the orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative, cooking it just until al dente. Remember, if you make substitutions, adjust cooking times slightly to ensure all components are perfectly cooked and melded together. Exploring these variations allows you to tailor the dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Broccoli Orzo Bake

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Broccoli

While the orzo is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked orzo, sautéed broccoli, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and oregano until well combined.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms to the orzo mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses to create your perfect blend.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, this creamy broccoli orzo bake stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it's covered tightly to prevent it from drying out. When reheating, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings, but be sure to add a splash of cream or water to keep it from drying out.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing individual portions. Allow it to cool completely before dividing into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, covered with foil, then uncovered for the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy broccoli orzo bake can be served as a main dish or a side. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the bake. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before serving can add a delightful kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For an elegant presentation, garnish with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully. You’ll find this bake is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, and it serves well for potlucks as well. Enjoying it straight from the oven is ideal, but it’s still delicious the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat orzo?

Yes, whole wheat orzo works well and adds a nutty flavor.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly!