Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
What makes this recipe special
This creamy baked orzo with vegetables is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce makes it not only delicious but also satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
How to make Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the orzo, vegetable broth, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper, then pour over the orzo and vegetables.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Top with Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.
How to serve Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
Serve this dish warm and enjoy it as a main course. It’s also great with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to store Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to make Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
- Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or broccoli would all work well.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the cream.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Variation
You can sprinkle some herbs like thyme or basil on top before baking for added flavor. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
2. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no meat.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy making this Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables – it’s simple, wholesome, and a crowd-pleaser!
Creamy Baked Orzo with Vegetables
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup cream or half-and-half For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the orzo, vegetable broth, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper, then pour over the orzo and vegetables.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Top with Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.
