Cheesy Baked Orzo with Marinara
Cheesy Baked Orzo with Marinara is an irresistible comfort dish that combines tender orzo pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its delightful aroma and inviting golden crust, this recipe not only warms the heart but also creates lasting memories around the dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook orzo until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo with the sauce and half of both cheeses in the skillet. Mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheeses, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed spinach or mushrooms. To spice things up, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.