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Cheesy Baked Orzo Recipe (Comfort Food Delight!)

Cheesy Baked Orzo

Welcome to the world of comfort food where every bite is a hug in a dish! Cheesy Baked Orzo combines the creamy richness of cheese with the comforting texture of orzo pasta, promising to please both kids and adults alike.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 375

Ingredients
  

For the Cheesy Baked Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Add in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
  4. Step 4: Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Transfer the orzo and cheese mixture to the dish and spread it evenly.
  5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  6. Step 6: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Cheesy Baked Orzo can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for batch cooking.