A One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for Weight Watchers (WW) because it’s made with wholesome ingredients and doesn’t require multiple pots or pans. Here’s a simple and WW-friendly recipe:
One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo (WW Recipe)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or use cooking spray for fewer points)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen broccoli, thawed)
- 1 cup fat-free milk (or unsweetened almond milk for fewer points)
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (or a lighter cheese of your choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Add the orzo to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the orzo.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Broccoli:
- Stir in the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the orzo is fully cooked.
- Make it Creamy:
- Once the orzo and broccoli are cooked, lower the heat and stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- If you’d like a little more flavor, you can add the Dijon mustard at this stage.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, one-pot meal!
WW Points:
- The points will depend on the exact ingredients you use, but this dish is lower in points thanks to the use of fat-free milk and reduced-fat cheese. If you’re following WW, you can calculate the points based on the specific brands and amounts you’re using.
Tips:
- Add Protein: If you’d like to add some protein, you can stir in some cooked chicken breast, lean turkey, or even some white beans.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the veggies you choose.
- For a Creamier Version: If you want a richer, creamier sauce, you can use a little light cream cheese or reduced-fat sour cream. Just keep in mind that it will add points.
This dish is a satisfying, comforting meal that’s perfect for a WW-friendly dinner! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations.
