One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake Recipe

This One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with hearty orzo pasta, all baked together in a single dish. Juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese meld to create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, reducing the number of dishes to wash.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with additional proteins or vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Flavorful: The combination of roasted tomatoes, basil pesto, and melted mozzarella offers a rich and satisfying taste experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry tomatoes
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic cloves, chopped
• Shallot, chopped
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Chili flakes
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• Dry orzo pasta
• Basil pesto
• Sliced peperoncinis
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the Tomatoes: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, chopped garlic, chopped shallot, chopped basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
3. Add Orzo and Pesto: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir in the dry orzo pasta, basil pesto, and sliced peperoncinis. Pour 2½ cups of water over the mixture and stir to combine.
4. Bake the Orzo: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until most of the water is absorbed but the mixture remains slightly saucy.
5. Add Cheese: Stir the pasta mixture, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Final Bake: Bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If there’s excess oil from the pesto on top, you can drain it off.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make the dish more substantial.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Options: Substitute or add other cheeses like fontina or parmesan for a different taste profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes and peperoncinis to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave until warmed through. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and seems dry, add a splash of water or broth before reheating to restore moisture.

FAQs

What is orzo, and can I substitute it with another pasta?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and is ideal for baked dishes. If you can’t find orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, but cooking times may vary.

Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto can enhance the freshness and flavor of the dish. Use your favorite recipe or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Is it necessary to roast the tomatoes first?

Roasting the tomatoes enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor, contributing significantly to the overall taste of the dish. It’s recommended not to skip this step.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

The base recipe is vegetarian. Ensure that the pesto and other ingredients used do not contain any animal products if you’re adhering to a strict vegetarian diet.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point before baking, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

What can I serve alongside this orzo bake?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming too oily?

If you notice excess oil from the pesto after baking, you can carefully drain it off before serving. Using a high-quality pesto with less oil can also help control the oiliness.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s possible to freeze leftovers, the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating. For best results, consume the dish fresh or refrigerated.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Be mindful of the cooking time adjustments needed for different pasta types.

Can I add more cheese on top?

Certainly! Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking for an extra cheesy and indulgent dish.

Conclusion

The One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the beloved flavors of a Caprese salad in a hearty pasta bake. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich taste make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it uniquely yours!

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