Save Tomato Basil Baked Orzo is the answer when you crave a bubbling cheesy casserole that is easy enough for weeknights and special enough for guests. This Mediterranean-inspired bake combines creamy orzo pasta a herby tomato sauce and stretchy mozzarella for a dish that is endlessly comforting. It is one of those recipes I return to all through the year when tomatoes are sweet and basil is fragrant or even when the pantry is the star.
The first time I made this I remember being surprised at how quickly it disappeared. Now it is my secret weapon when I need hearty comfort food with very little fuss.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: This petite pasta bakes up creamy without extra effort Choose a quality Italian brand if you can
- Yellow onion: A classic foundation for flavor Pick one that feels heavy and unbruised
- Garlic: Brings deep savory notes Fresh is best for zing
- Diced tomatoes: Standard canned is fine look for a brand with only tomatoes and salt for pure tomato taste
- Tomato sauce or passata: Smoothes out the texture and thickens the sauce Italian brands often have the best flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Add freshness and pops of sweetness Choose firm and glossy tomatoes
- Fresh basil: The soul of this dish Look for bright unblemished leaves
- Vegetable broth: Infuses layers of savory depth Go for low sodium so you can control the saltiness
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that crucial stretchy gooey topping Buy a block and shred it yourself if possible
- Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp nutty flavor Real Parmigiano Reggiano will provide the best results
- Olive oil: For richness and to help everything cook evenly Use extra virgin for top flavor
- Dried oregano: Brings a Mediterranean herbal undertone Always check for freshness and aroma
- Red pepper flakes: Adds optional gentle heat Adjust to suit your spice preference
- Salt and black pepper: To balance all the flavors Use kosher or sea salt for even seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius This ensures your casserole will bake evenly from the start
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Drizzle olive oil into a large ovenproof skillet and warm over medium heat Add chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened but not browned The onion should smell sweet and fragrant
- Build the Flavor:
- Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute This wakes up the garlic without burning it
- Toast the Orzo:
- Pour in the uncooked orzo pasta and stir for 2 minutes The orzo will turn a little golden and develop a nutty aroma which makes the final dish extra rich
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Stir in canned diced tomatoes tomato sauce vegetable broth dried oregano red pepper flakes salt and black pepper Scrape the bottom of the pan well so nothing sticks
- Add the Fresh Elements:
- Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil Stir to mix everything without crushing the tomatoes
- Bring to a Simmer:
- Allow the sauce mixture to bubble just until you see slow gentle simmering Then remove the pan from the heat so the pasta does not overcook
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly to make sure every bite is ultra cheesy and flavorful
- Bake Covered:
- Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes This steams the orzo so it cooks through gently
- Finish Baking Uncovered:
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes The cheese will melt and turn golden and the orzo should be tender not mushy
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving for cleaner scoops and better texture Garnish with extra fresh basil for color and aroma
Save My favorite part is always the golden corner pieces where the cheese and tomato edges caramelize and turn slightly crispy. My kids call those bits the treasure which always sparks good natured negotiations at the dinner table.
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool completely before storing Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to three days When reheating add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and heat gently in the oven or microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap orzo for any small pasta such as petite shells or gluten free versions for allergy friendly meals Replace the mozzarella with vegan shreds if you like Sub in zucchini baby spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra color or to use up what is in your fridge
Serving Suggestions
Serve it as a main course with a fresh leafy salad and crusty sourdough or pair as a hearty side for grilled proteins It is lovely with a spoonful of briny olive tapenade on top whenever I want to channel a Greek taverna meal
Cultural Roots
Orzo bakes are especially popular across the Mediterranean Often called giouvetsi in Greece they are comfort food at its best Simple ingredients layered into a flavorful meal that brings families together
Seasonal Adaptations
Stir chopped roasted zucchini or eggplant into the sauce for extra summer flavor Add spinach in the last few minutes for a pop of green Top with sliced fresh heirloom tomatoes and cheese in midsummer for added beauty at the table
Success Stories
One fall potluck I doubled this recipe tossed in some roasted pumpkin and it was the first pan to disappear Friends always ask for the recipe and love how customizable it is for picky eaters and dietary needs
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble until just before baking cool cover with foil and freeze up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed adding ten extra minutes if it is still cold in the center
Save This bake is instantly comforting with all the bubbly cheesy goodness. Serve immediately and enjoy those irresistible crispy corners!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Small pasta shapes like rice-shaped pasta, pearl couscous, or small shells can work, but cooking time will vary.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute regular orzo with gluten-free orzo or small gluten-free pasta for similar texture and taste.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
You can assemble the casserole up to baking, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → Is it possible to make this vegan?
Use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives to make this dish fully plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Spinach, zucchini, or roasted peppers are excellent additions. Fold them in before baking for extra color and nutrients.
- → What dishes pair well with this?
This casserole matches nicely with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir.