Save to Pinterest This Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo Bake is my answer to those chilly weeknights when only a bubbling, golden pasta dish will do. Tender orzo absorbs the flavors of aromatic vegetables, rich sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and creamy cheeses for an irresistible vegetarian meal that always leaves the table quiet with contentment. I reach for this recipe when I want something both homey and packed with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
The first time I baked this, the aroma drew my entire family into the kitchen before it was even done. Since then, it has become our go-to comfort meal for everything from busy Mondays to lazy Sundays.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: provides a creamy texture and soaks up all the savory liquid Choose a firm orzo that holds shape
- Sun-dried tomatoes: infuse tangy richness Use oil-packed and drain well for maximum flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: bring bursts of sweetness and color Look for ripe but firm tomatoes
- Yellow onion: builds an aromatic flavor base Choose onions with tight skins for freshness
- Garlic: lends warmth and depth Always use fresh cloves for the best punch
- Baby spinach: adds bright color and nutrients Pick crisp leaves without wilting
- Fresh basil: supplies summery fragrance and a pop of flavor
- Olive oil: gently sautés the aromatics Use extra-virgin for the best taste
- Vegetable broth: enhances savoriness Choose a low-sodium variety to control salt
- Whole milk: creates creaminess and helps orzo cook evenly
- Ricotta cheese: adds a luscious and creamy body Go for whole-milk ricotta for silkiness
- Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and brings gooey comfort
- Parmesan cheese: offers a salty finish Buy freshly grated if possible
- Dried oregano and chili flakes: add Mediterranean flair and gentle heat
- Salt and black pepper: perfect the seasoning Use flaky sea salt or kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius straight away so it heats up properly Arrange a 9 by 13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it to keep the orzo from sticking
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the chopped onion and stir often for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent Scatter in the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another minute until the fragrance fills the kitchen
- Build the Tomato Base:
- Mix in your chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh cherry tomatoes Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes Stir occasionally to help the tomatoes soften and the flavors meld together
- Toast the Orzo:
- Pour in the dry orzo and turn it around in the skillet to coat every grain in the oily vegetables Let it toast gently for a minute or two so it starts developing a slight nuttiness
- Simmer with Liquids and Spices:
- Add vegetable broth and milk all at once Season generously with oregano chili flakes if using plus salt and black pepper Bring everything to a gentle simmer Stir often for about 5 to 6 minutes until the orzo has just started to soften but still has some bite
- Add Greens and Herbs:
- Fold in the chopped spinach and half of the chopped basil Leaves should wilt quickly and the color will brighten up the pan Remove the skillet from heat
- Incorporate Cheeses:
- Gently stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella This will make the mixture extra creamy and binder ready When mixed thoroughly pour everything from your skillet into the greased baking dish
- Top and Bake:
- Scatter the remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan across the top Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes After remove the foil and keep baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden and you see bubbling edges
- Rest and Garnish:
- Take the dish out and let it rest for about 5 minutes before scooping to help the bake set Garnish with the rest of your fresh basil for a finishing hit of herby goodness
Save to Pinterest My favorite part is watching the cheese bubble and brown under the broiler The sun-dried tomatoes always remind me of summer days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen learning that a sprinkle of fresh basil at the end can transform even the simplest casserole
Storage Tips
This bake keeps well covered in the fridge for up to three days The orzo will continue soaking up some liquid so add a splash of broth or milk when reheating for best texture To freeze let the bake cool completely wrap tightly and store for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating Leftovers are great enjoyed straight from the baking dish or scooped into individual bowls for no-fuss meals
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap orzo for pearl couscous or small pasta shapes for a similar creamy effect Go dairy-free with your favorite plant-based cheese and milk and try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor Switch in kale or chard for the spinach if that is what you have on hand
Serving Suggestions
Serve the orzo bake with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette Crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber yogurt salad for a lighter side
Save to Pinterest My family asks for this creamy orzo bake year-round and it is a staple for our vegetarian friends I love remembering how my little one licks the spoon just to taste the last bit of sauce We still argue who gets the crispy cheesy corners
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use gluten-free orzo?
Yes, substitute gluten-free orzo for a wheat-free option, but check package instructions for cook time adjustments.
- → How do I make it vegan?
Replace dairy cheeses and milk with plant-based alternatives and ensure vegetarian broth is vegan-friendly.
- → What sides pair best?
Serve with crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh crusty bread for a balanced Mediterranean meal.
- → Can I add protein?
Yes, you can add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein without changing the core flavors.
- → Can leftovers be reheated?
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
- → What cheese alternatives work?
Try dairy-free mozzarella substitutes, vegan ricotta, or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy effect.