Name: Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, chopped; 1 cup roughly chopped mushrooms; 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus more for topping; 1 bay leaf; Zest of 1/2 a lemon; Fresh basil, for serving; 1 pound dry orzo pasta (use gluten free, if needed); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less to taste); Kosher salt and black pepper; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc; 1/2 cup whole milk or canned coconut milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated asiago or manchego cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 41 reviews

If you’re anything like me and always on the lookout for comforting meals that are both hearty and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender orzo pasta mingling with vibrant broccoli, earthy mushrooms, and tons of melty, sharp cheddar—all baked into a cozy, golden casserole. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with friends when you want to impress without the fuss.

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Why This Recipe Works

One-Pot Wonder: You make everything in a single skillet, which means magic with minimal cleanup—trust me, that’s a blessing.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sharp cheddar and asiago cheeses bring a rich, tangy depth that pairs beautifully with the bright lemon zest and fresh thyme.
Textural Joy: Creamy, tender orzo meets crisp-tender broccoli and a crispy cheesy crust on top—can’t beat that contrast.
Versatile Comfort Food: Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting guests, or meal prepping, this bake hits the spot every time.

Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake, baked vegetable pasta, cheesy broccoli casserole, one-pot veggie bake, easy comforting pasta dish - A black cast-iron pan filled with a baked casserole showing at least three layers: the bottom layer consists of cooked rice mixed with small pieces of broccoli and shredded chicken, the middle layer has melted cheese with both white and orange shades evenly spread, and the top layer is a slightly browned cheese crust dotted with green basil and thyme leaves. A silver spoon scoops out a portion, revealing the soft texture of the rice and broccoli underneath the cheesy surface. The pan rests on a textured wooden table with some green leaves scattered nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe pairs simple, wholesome ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Each element has a role—from the freshness of thyme to the richness of sharp cheddar—and if you pick your ingredients right, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning, satisfying dish.

Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake, baked vegetable pasta, cheesy broccoli casserole, one-pot veggie bake, easy comforting pasta dish - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of extra virgin olive oil, a whole yellow onion peeled with top and root ends visible, a small white ceramic bowl filled with roughly chopped fresh white mushrooms, two tablespoons of salted butter on a simple white ceramic dish, a small mound of dry orzo pasta scattered neatly, a small white ceramic bowl with fresh green thyme leaves, a small white ceramic bowl of clear vegetable broth, a small white ceramic bowl holding dry white wine, a heap of bright green broccoli florets, a fresh glossy bay leaf, a small white ceramic bowl with a fine white powder of garlic powder, a small white ceramic bowl with vibrant red cayenne pepper powder, half a lemon with fresh zest visible, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, a small white ceramic bowl with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a small white ceramic bowl with grated asiago cheese, a few sprigs of fresh basil, all arranged with perfect symmetry and balanced proportions, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Extra virgin olive oil: A fragrant base for sautéing, bringing richness without overpowering flavors.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth after gently cooking down—don’t rush this step!
Mushrooms: Provide an earthy umami boost that complements the cheesy goodness.
Salted butter: Adds creaminess and helps toast the orzo, enhancing nutty flavors.
Dry orzo pasta: The star of the show—its tiny, rice-like shape soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Fresh thyme leaves: Bring fragrant herbal notes that brighten the bake.
Low sodium vegetable broth: Acts as the cooking liquid for the orzo, making the dish flavorful and moist.
Dry white wine: Adds a subtle acidity and depth; choose a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a crisp finish.
Broccoli florets: The green hero providing crunch, color, and nutrients.
Bay leaf: Infuses gentle warmth—remember to remove before serving!
Garlic powder & cayenne pepper: Layers of savory heat—adjust cayenne to your spice preference.
Lemon zest: Lifts flavors with bright citrus notes, cutting through the richness.
Whole milk or canned coconut milk: Creams the mixture, keeping it luscious without being heavy.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Classic melty cheese that delivers punchy, tangy flavor.
Asiago or manchego cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity and that irresistible crispy top when broiled.
Fresh basil: A fresh garnish to add vibrant aroma and a little color pop when serving.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of my favorite things about this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to amp up the heat or keep it mild for picky eaters, there’s always a simple twist that works.

Add Protein: I often toss in cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier meal—makes it feel like a full feast in one dish.
Make it Vegan: Swap butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives that melt well, and replace broth with a rich vegetable stock—still deliciously creamy.
Seasonal Swaps: I sometimes mix in asparagus tips or roasted red peppers in spring and summer, or swap broccoli for cauliflower when it’s in season.
Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking; start small and add more as you go—it spices the dish without overpowering the cheese.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies to Build Flavor

Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat until it starts to shimmer—it’s the sweet spot for sautéing. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s fragrant and translucent. This slow cook brings out the onion’s natural sweetness and sets the flavor foundation. Then, toss in your mushrooms with a pinch of salt and pepper and cook another 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and juicy. I love this step because it layers in that deep umami that pairs so well with cheese.

Step 2: Toast Orzo and Add Seasonings

Stir in the butter, followed by the orzo pasta, broccoli florets, and fresh thyme. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes, stirring often so the orzo gets lightly toasted and golden—this unlocks a nutty flavor that makes a huge difference. Next comes the exciting part: pour in the white wine, then add the broth, bay leaf, garlic powder, cayenne, and generous pinches of salt and pepper. Give it a stir, bring it to a simmer, and let the orzo cook for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s al dente but still firm to the bite. Keep stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Finish with Cheese and Bake

Once your orzo is perfectly cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the lemon zest, milk, and half of your cheddar cheese, mixing gently until creamy. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer everything into a casserole dish. Scatter the remaining cheddar and asiago (or manchego) cheese on top for that glorious cheesy crust. Pop it into your preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts and you see that bubbly magic happening. For the final flourish, switch your oven to broil and brighten the top for 1-2 minutes—watch carefully so it crisps just right without burning. Serve warm garnished with fresh thyme and basil. Trust me, this is where all the flavors come together in perfect harmony.

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Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe

Don’t Skip Toasting the Orzo: To get that irresistible nutty flavor, be sure to sauté the orzo in butter until golden before adding liquid.
Watch the Liquid Levels: Orzo absorbs liquid quickly; add broth gradually if needed to keep it creamy but not soupy.
Broil Carefully: The broil step crisps up the cheese topping beautifully—keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and basil really brighten the dish and elevate the flavors more than dried herbs ever could.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake, baked vegetable pasta, cheesy broccoli casserole, one-pot veggie bake, easy comforting pasta dish - The image shows a baked dish with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese on top that looks slightly crispy at the edges. Underneath the cheese are visible chunks of green broccoli and a mix of rice or small pasta, which seem soft and mixed well with creamy sauce. Fresh green basil leaves and small sprigs of herbs are scattered on top as garnish. The dish is in a dark round pan placed on a white marbled surface with a silver serving spoon slightly scooping some of the baked food, revealing the cheese stretching and the mixed texture inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love to finish my bake with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and torn basil leaves—these herbs add an irresistible aroma and fresh pop that brightens the richness of the cheese. A little extra lemon zest on top amps up that citrus zing, making each bite feel lively.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is pretty hearty on its own, I usually keep sides light—think a crisp mixed green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette or roasted cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil. Sometimes I add garlic bread if we’re in the mood for extra comfort food vibes. It really pairs wonderfully with anything fresh or with a touch of acidity to balance the rich cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to bake the orzo in individual ramekins—each person gets their own bubbly little cheesy pot, which feels a bit fancy but is so simple. Another fun twist is stirring in sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions before baking for an extra flavor punch. It’s always a hit when I bring it to potlucks or family gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The orzo soaks up a bit of the liquid, so when I reheat, I like to add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. It reheats beautifully and actually tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

This bake freezes well if you prepare it through the cooking but before baking step. I cover it tightly with foil and freeze up to 3 months. To enjoy, I thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes if it’s still a little chilled.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the bake with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist. For single portions, the microwave works fine—just stir occasionally to warm evenly and avoid dryness.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free orzo in this Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! I’ve used DeLallo brand gluten-free orzo with great results. Just keep an eye on cooking times since gluten-free pasta sometimes cooks a little faster or softer—adjust the broth as needed to prevent sticking.
What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?

If you prefer to skip the wine, you can substitute additional vegetable broth with a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity. It won’t have exactly the same depth, but it keeps the flavor bright and balanced.
How spicy is this dish with cayenne pepper?

The cayenne adds a subtle warmth, not overpowering heat. I recommend starting with 1/2 teaspoon and adjusting to your liking, especially if you’re cooking for kids or those sensitive to spice.
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based butter or olive oil, substitute dairy milk for canned coconut milk, and swap the cheeses for your favorite vegan melty alternatives. Just keep an eye on salt levels since some vegan cheeses can be saltier or milder.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bake Recipe is one of those meals I keep coming back to because it’s comforting, delicious, and surprisingly simple. Every time I make it, the combination of creamy cheese, tender orzo, and crisp veggies never fails to satisfy. So, if you want to impress your family or just indulge in some seriously good comfort food, give this one a shot—you’ll feel like you just whipped up something fancy even on a busy night. Trust me, you’re going to love it as much as I do!