Creamy Garlic Turkey Broccoli Orzo (Print Version)

Juicy turkey, tender broccoli, and orzo pasta in a rich garlic cream sauce

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1.1 lbs ground turkey

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium head broccoli, cut into small florets
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Pasta

05 - 9 oz orzo pasta

→ Dairy

06 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
07 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Liquids

09 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
10 - 1/2 cup milk

→ Herbs and Spices

11 - 1 tsp dried thyme
12 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Other

15 - 1 tbsp olive oil
16 - Zest of 1 lemon, optional for garnish
17 - Extra Parmesan for serving

# How to Make:

01 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in ground turkey and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook while breaking up the meat until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
04 - Add orzo pasta to the pan, stirring to coat in the aromatics and turkey fat for 1 minute.
05 - Pour in broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Add broccoli florets, stir, and cover again. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, until orzo reaches al dente consistency and broccoli is just tender.
07 - Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the orzo. Adjust seasoning and add red pepper flakes if desired.
08 - Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
09 - Serve hot, garnished with lemon zest and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • A complete, balanced meal made in just 40 minutes.
  • Uses ground turkey for a leaner, juicy protein alternative.
  • The one-pan style makes for easy preparation and even easier cleanup.
02 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese for a smoother, clump-free sauce.
  • If the orzo absorbs too much liquid during the resting period, add a small splash of warm broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Sautéing the orzo for one minute before adding liquids enhances its nutty flavor profile.
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