Why You’ll Love One Pan Tomato Basil Baked Orzo Recipe
It cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy.
It is creamy, cheesy, and full of tomato basil flavor.
It works well as a vegetarian meal or with added protein.
It is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Garlic
- Kosher salt
- Spinach
- Basil pesto
- Tomato basil sauce
- Water or broth
- Orzo
- Italian seasoning
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil
- Red pepper flakes, optional
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Stir in the spinach, basil pesto, tomato basil sauce, and water or broth. Add the orzo, more salt, and Italian seasoning, then mix until everything is well combined.
Bake uncovered until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in part of the mozzarella. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and return the skillet to the oven until the cheese melts.
Broil briefly until the top is lightly golden. Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes, then serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Add cooked shredded chicken, cubed chicken, tuna, chicken sausage, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
For more vegetables, add zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra spinach.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta.
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free mozzarella and dairy-free pesto.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of water or broth if the orzo has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I add protein?
Yes. Chicken, tuna, sausage, or chicken sausage all work well.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. The base recipe is vegetarian as long as your pesto and cheese are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, but choose a small pasta shape and adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free orzo or a small gluten-free pasta.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cheese and dairy-free pesto.
What can I use instead of tomato basil sauce?
You can use your favorite marinara or pasta sauce.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, and extra spinach are great options.
Why is my orzo still firm?
It may need a few more minutes in the oven or a small splash of extra broth or water.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze in individual portions, then thaw and reheat when needed.
Conclusion
One pan tomato basil baked orzo is an easy, comforting dinner with simple ingredients and rich, cheesy flavor. It is flexible, satisfying, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
