Baked Orzo Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Meal Ideas

If you’re searching for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this vegetarian baked orzo recipe is exactly what you need. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, bakes up beautifully with a medley of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and fragrant herbs.

It’s a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The best part?

This meal is flexible — you can tailor it to whatever veggies you have on hand and make it as cheesy or light as you prefer. The golden, bubbly topping and tender, flavorful orzo inside create a perfect harmony that will make this recipe a staple in your recipe collection.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this baked orzo dish offers an irresistible combination of texture and taste. Plus, it reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked orzo recipe vegetarian stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.

Second, the baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting, casserole-like dish that’s perfect for all seasons.

Additionally, it’s a one-dish meal that doesn’t require much hands-on time. You simply combine the ingredients, pop them in the oven, and let it do the work.

It’s also packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice that satisfies without feeling heavy.

If you love dishes like this, don’t miss trying our Half Runner Beans Recipe for another veggie-packed delight or the cheesy goodness of our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe. For dessert to round out your meal, check out the classic Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish
• Medium saucepan (if not using oven-safe skillet)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your orzo bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
5. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat the orzo with the oil and veggies, allowing it to toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid but is still slightly al dente.
8. Remove the lid and gently stir in the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly.
9. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. If you’re using feta, crumble it on top as well.
10. Transfer the skillet (or pour everything into a casserole dish if your skillet is not oven-safe) into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

“To keep this dish vegan, simply substitute the cheese with your favorite vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.”

Feel free to switch up the vegetables depending on what’s in season or your preferences. Mushrooms, eggplant, or even kale can be excellent additions.

You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or swap the mozzarella for gouda for a creamier texture.

For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas or white beans just before baking. If you prefer a creamier casserole, stir in ¼ cup of cream or coconut milk with the broth.

Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked orzo dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. It also makes a great accompaniment to warm, crusty bread — try our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for a spicy, cheesy option.

For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a chilled cucumber and tomato salad or steamed green beans with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. And if you’re craving something sweet after your meal, the Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe is a perfect dessert to indulge in.

Conclusion

This vegetarian baked orzo recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.

The ability to customize the vegetables and cheeses means it’s adaptable to any season or pantry staples you have on hand.

Beyond being delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients and offers a balanced meal in one dish. If you love this recipe, be sure to explore more vegetarian delights like our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a sweet treat or the refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe to complement your healthy lifestyle.

Enjoy this baked orzo experience and happy cooking!

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