This Baked Feta Orzo is a creamy, cheesy delight that comes together with just a few simple ingredients. The baked feta melts into a rich sauce, making every bite extra yummy!
It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! I love to toss in some veggies for color. Trust me, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Feta is key for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using reduced-fat feta. For a non-dairy version, consider using a vegan feta made from nuts.
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is perfect for soaking up flavors. If orzo isn’t available, substitute with rice, quinoa, or any small pasta like ditalini or macaroni for a similar effect.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use sweet cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor. In a pinch, canned diced tomatoes can work, but fresh is always preferable for roasting.
Kalamata Olives: For a different taste, swap Kalamata olives with green olives or black olives. They add a nice briny flavor and richness to the dish.
Vegetable Broth: If you don’t have vegetable broth, water works just fine. For extra flavor, you could also use chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian.
How Do I Ensure the Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
One key step is making sure the orzo cooks evenly while soaking up flavors. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure the orzo is fully submerged in the broth; this helps it cook properly.
- Check for doneness around the 30-minute mark. If it looks dry, you can add a bit more broth or water.
- Stir the dish gently after baking to mix everything; this helps the feta incorporate with the orzo for creaminess.
Baked Feta Orzo Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 block (200g) feta cheese
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Feta Orzo takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you should plan for around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying dish with minimal prep and maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for baking your dish.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take an oven-safe baking dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the center. This will be the star of your dish!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, arrange the cherry tomatoes and the halved Kalamata olives around the feta cheese in the dish. They will roast beautifully and add wonderful flavors.
4. Add the Orzo:
Sprinkle the orzo pasta evenly around the feta and the veggies. This helps everything cook together perfectly.
5. Season the Dish:
Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat) over the orzo and tomatoes. This will infuse all the flavors together!
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Generously drizzle the olive oil over the entire mixture, ensuring everything gets a nice coat.
7. Pour in the Liquid:
Now pour the vegetable broth or water into the dish. Make sure the orzo is submerged—this is key for cooking it perfectly.
8. Season and Bake:
Add a bit of salt and black pepper to taste, remembering that both feta and olives bring their own saltiness. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes, until the orzo is tender and the feta is golden and slightly browned on top.
9. Stir and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and give the mixture a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. It should be creamy and delicious! Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
10. Enjoy:
This dish can be served warm, either as a main course or a hearty side. Enjoy the rich Mediterranean flavors!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a similar creamy texture or even a cream cheese for a milder flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed since different cheeses have varying salt levels.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, any small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa can be used. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and add them alongside the other ingredients to ensure they cook evenly. Enjoy experimenting!
