Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect dish to add to your weekly meal rotation. This hearty and comforting recipe brings together tender orzo pasta, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply want to enjoy a tasty meal, this dish is both easy to prepare and delicious.

The beauty of Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The orzo absorbs the rich and tangy sun-dried tomatoes while the creamy sauce ties everything together. You can customize this dish with additional ingredients like vegetables, chicken, or cheese to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main or a side dish.

In this article, we will explore why Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a must-try recipe, walk you through the step-by-step preparation, and offer helpful tips and variations to help you make this dish your own. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, you’ll find that this recipe is as straightforward as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce creates a depth of flavor that’s both rich and comforting.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can prepare this dish in no time.
• Versatile: Whether served as a vegetarian main, side dish, or even with chicken or beef, this recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for a quick meal.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is made without pork, bacon, or wine, making it suitable for halal diets.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 40 minutes for baking, 20 minutes for cooling)
• Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people, depending on portion size.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving):
  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Orzo Bake:

• 2 cups uncooked orzo: Orzo pasta is the star of this dish, providing a satisfying, tender texture.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped): These tomatoes bring a tangy, rich flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For melty, gooey goodness that ties the dish together.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional): For extra nutrition and a pop of color.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a herby, Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the sun-dried tomatoes and adds a fragrant note.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy pasta.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For toasting the breadcrumbs and adding flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Optional, for garnish and a burst of freshness.

Step-by-Step

Preparation

FIRST STEP: COOK THE ORZO

1. Boil the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Once the orzo is al dente, drain it in a colander and set it aside.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE SAUCE

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes. The oil from the sun-dried tomatoes will infuse the dish with rich flavor.
3. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season the Sauce: Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate the spices and adjust seasoning as needed.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE ORZO BAKE

1. Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo to the sauce mixture, stirring to combine. Once the orzo is evenly coated with the creamy sauce, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
2. Add Spinach: If you’re using spinach, fold it into the mixture now, allowing it to wilt from the heat of the sauce. This adds a nutritious and colorful element to the dish.

FOURTH STEP: PREPARE THE TOPPING

1. Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure they don’t burn.
2. Garnish: Once the breadcrumbs are toasted, sprinkle them over the top of the orzo mixture for a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

FIFTH STEP: BAKE THE ORZO

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the orzo mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is bubbly around the edges.
3. Cool: Once baked, remove the orzo bake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice.

FINAL STEP: SERVE AND ENJOY

1. Garnish with Fresh Parsley: If desired, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top of the orzo bake for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
2. Serve: Slice and serve the Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with the perfect balance of tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Serve Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. As a Main Dish

This orzo bake is hearty enough to serve as a main course. The creamy sauce, tender orzo, and sun-dried tomatoes make for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.

2. As a Side Dish

If you’re making a larger meal, this orzo bake can also work as a side dish. It complements a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables or even fish.

3. With Protein Additions

For a protein-packed meal, consider adding grilled chicken, beef, or lamb. You can mix the cooked protein into the orzo bake or serve it alongside.

4. With a Fresh Salad

To balance the richness of the dish, serve the Orzo Bake with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the orzo bake ahead of time by assembling the dish (without baking it) and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven for the full baking time.
2. Freezing: Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes freezes well. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
3. Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in some chopped jalapeños along with the sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit any meat and increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Recipe Variations

While the Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

1. Use Different Cheeses

While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

2. Add More Vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to the dish. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even eggplant pair beautifully with the sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce.

3. Use Fresh Tomatoes

If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can substitute them for sun-dried tomatoes. Be sure to cook them down until they release their juices and become flavorful before adding them to the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers, store the Orzo Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping and storing it in the freezer.

Special Equipment

This dish doesn’t require any special equipment, but a few kitchen tools can make the process easier:

• Large Pot: For cooking the orzo.
• Large Skillet: For sautéing the vegetables and making the sauce.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Perfect for assembling and baking the orzo dish.
• Spatula: For stirring the mixture and spreading it in the baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While orzo is the traditional pasta for this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes, like elbow macaroni or penne.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives. Use coconut milk or almond milk for the cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta in place of the orzo. Ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Print

Conclusion

Orzo Bake with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Its rich, creamy texture, coupled with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and melty cheese, makes it an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress with its vibrant flavor and satisfying texture. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!