One‑Pot Broccoli Cheddar Salmon Orzo 

A creamy, comforting, and nutritious one‑pan dish that combines tender pan‑seared salmon with cheesy orzo and vibrant broccoli. This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The orzo absorbs flavorful broth and cheese for a silky sauce, while fresh broccoli and flaky salmon add texture and protein. It’s a complete meal in one skillet—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  
  

• 4 skinless salmon fillets (about same size)
  
  

• 1 tsp salt (divided)
  
  

• 1 tsp black pepper
  
  

• 1 tsp sweet paprika
  
  

• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
  

• 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
  
  

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
  

• 1 cup orzo pasta
  
  

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  
  

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  
  

• ½ cup dry white wine (or extra broth)
  
  

• 1 small head broccoli, cut into small florets (~3 cups)
  
  

• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  
  

• ½ cup half‑and‑half (or heavy cream)
  
  

• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
  
  

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• Chili flakes and extra black pepper, for serving
  
  

Directions

1. Prep & sear salmon
   Pat fillets dry and season both sides with ½ tsp salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Heat oil + butter in a large skillet over medium‑high. Sear salmon 3–4 minutes per side until golden; remove and set aside.
   
   

2. Sauté aromatics & orzo
   Add garlic and onion to the pan; sauté 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in orzo, Italian seasoning, cayenne, and remaining ½ tsp salt; cook 1 minute. Pour in white wine to deglaze, simmer 2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
   
   

3. Cook orzo & broccoli
   Add broccoli florets and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium‑low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed (about 10 minutes).
   
   

4. Finish with cheese & salmon
   Stir in half‑and‑half, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Nestle the salmon back into the skillet and simmer gently 3 minutes to warm through.
   
   

5. Serve
   Sprinkle with chili flakes and extra freshly ground black pepper. Serve directly from the pan for a hearty, comforting dinner.
   
   

Nutrients (per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: ≈ 517 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 36 g
  
  

• Protein: 42 g
  
  

• Fat: 22 g (sat. fat 6 g)
  
  

• Fiber: 3 g
  
  

• Sugar: 4 g
  
  

• Sodium: ~1336 mg
  
  

• Potassium: ~1098 mg