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Cheesy Baked Orzo Recipe (Easy and Delicious!)

Cheesy Baked Orzo

Welcome to the delicious world of Cheesy Baked Orzo, where comfort food meets gourmet flavors! This delightful dish combines the creamy texture of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses with the vibrant taste of sautéed vegetables and marinara sauce, creating a meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheesy Baked Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling orzo
  • Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
  • Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
  • Baking dish (9x13 inches recommended)
  • Aluminum foil to cover the baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Step 4: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with the sautéed vegetables. Add ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
  6. Step 6: Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Pour the orzo mixture over the sauce and spread evenly.
  7. Step 7: Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  8. Step 8: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Step 9: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Make it vegan by substituting with plant-based cheeses and marinara sauce. This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.