Tomato Basil Baked Orzo

Name: Tomato Basil Baked Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

A delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and baked orzo pasta.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:58:30.098Z

This Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. It's easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes and basil
Creamy texture with a crispy baked top
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

A Flavorful Journey

Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The combination of ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil creates a vibrant and aromatic dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

The use of orzo pasta adds a unique twist to the traditional baked pasta dish. Its small, rice-like shape allows it to absorb the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a creamy and comforting texture. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the burst of colors from the tomatoes and the green basil leaves.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is an excellent choice. Its simplicity makes it easy to whip up, while the layers of flavor ensure it will impress any guest. Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices. Not only will this enhance the flavors, but it also allows you to adapt the dish to your dietary preferences or seasonal produce.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.

If you want to freeze leftovers, simply let the baked orzo cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, mozzarella cheese, basil, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Tomato Basil Baked Orzo!

This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and folate. They are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

The addition of fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory benefits and is rich in antioxidants. With the inclusion of whole ingredients like mozzarella and olive oil, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the fresh flavors of Tomato Basil Baked Orzo, consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the creaminess of the orzo while adding a refreshing crunch.

A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can enhance the dining experience, bringing out the flavors of the tomatoes and basil. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is equally delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure your broth is vegetable-based and you're good to go.

→ Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the baked orzo. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.