Cheesy Broccoli and Pepper Baked Orzo is a tasty and comforting pasta dish made with soft orzo, bright broccoli, sweet red bell pepper, and a crunchy, cheesy topping. It's great for a cozy dinner during the week or as a side dish at a party.
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta. 2 cups broccoli florets. 1 red bell pepper, diced. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 2 tablespoons olive oil. 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Salt and pepper to taste. 1/4 cup breadcrumbs.
Instructions: Before you start cooking, heat the oven to 375F 190C. Follow the directions on the box to cook the orzo. For the last two minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the boiling water. Remove the water and set it aside. Put the olive oil in a big pan and heat it over medium-low heat. Put in the red bell pepper dices and minced garlic. About 34 minutes of cooking will soften the food. Put the broccoli and orzo that have been cooked into the pan. Add the salt and pepper, along with the dried thyme. Combine well. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix it in until it melts and is well mixed in. Put the mixture in a baking dish. On top, spread out the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. It should be baked in a hot oven for twenty to twenty-five minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges come together. Enjoy while hot!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Harshad V. Kulkarni, Ph.D.
