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Cheesy Baked Orzo

A delightful and creamy dish featuring baked orzo pasta, melted cheese, and a crispy top, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Pasta shaped like rice.
  • 2 cups vegetable broth Can use chicken broth for added flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Or a Halal-friendly alternative.
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For melting and topping.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds flavor and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For greasing the baking dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds delicious flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Adjust based on preference.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach Optional, can add more veggies.
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or basil) For added flavor and presentation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the orzo in a pot of boiling water according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Once the orzo is cooked and drained, stir it into the cheese sauce mix. Fold in spinach if desired.
  4. Lightly grease an oven-safe baking dish with olive oil and pour the orzo mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

For a twist, experiment with different types of cheeses. Add more vegetables for nutrition and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.