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Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo for a Cozy Night In

This Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo is a comforting one-pot meal that combines flaky salmon, creamy orzo, and vibrant broccoli in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil can substitute with grapeseed or avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter can replace with more olive oil for a dairy-free version
  • 1 medium Brown Onion can substitute with yellow or white onions
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves omit if sensitive or use garlic powder instead
For the Salmon
  • 4 fillets Skinless Salmon Fillets can substitute with skinless chicken breasts or a firm fish like cod
  • to taste Salt adjust based on dietary needs or substitute with a salt-free seasoning blend
  • to taste Black Pepper use freshly ground for the best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika can use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo can replace with another small pasta or gluten-free orzo
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning use a homemade blend if preferred (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper omit if sensitive or reduce for a milder taste
  • 1/2 cup White Wine (dry) replace with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth vegetable broth can be used for a pescatarian option
  • 1/2 cup Half-and-Half substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative
  • 1 cup Freshly Shredded Cheddar use mild or sharp cheddar per preference
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan can swap with pecorino or omit for dairy-free versions
For the Finishing Touch
  • 2 cups Broccoli can swap with spinach or peas
  • to taste Chili Flakes optional garnish for heat, adjust based on spice preference
  • to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper use white pepper if preferred

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the skinless salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. Chop the brown onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. Prepare the broccoli by cutting it into small florets.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of orzo, cayenne pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toast the orzo for about 1 minute while stirring.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine to deglaze the skillet and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until mostly absorbed.
  6. Add 2 cups of chicken broth and prepared broccoli florets. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cook uncovered for approximately 10 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup of half-and-half, 1 cup of freshly shredded cheddar, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
  8. Gently return the cooked salmon to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture, and simmer for an additional 3 minutes until heated through.
  9. Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo warm, topped with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.

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