Sun Dried Tomato And Herbed Cheesed Baked Orzo Recipe

This irresistible baked orzo recipe is bursting with flavor! Sweet sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic and shallots, and fresh herbs combine with creamy cheese and perfectly cooked orzo. Topped with a crunchy parmesan and breadcrumb crust, this dish is a comforting and elegant meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Inspired by a Food Network recipe, this adaptation uses pantry staples for an easy, flavorful result.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 540.1 kcal
Protein 43g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Sun Dried Tomato And Herbed Cheesed Baked Orzo 32

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato And Herbed Cheesed Baked Orzo

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How to Make Sun Dried Tomato And Herbed Cheesed Baked Orzo

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Do not brown.
  4. Add 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained), chopped, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Add 1 cup orzo pasta to the saucepan and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  7. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
  8. Reduce heat to low, season with salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt, add more if needed, remembering the parmesan's saltiness).
  9. Simmer, covered, until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes. A little liquid should remain.
  10. Transfer the orzo mixture to a large bowl.
  11. Stir in 4 ounces fontina cheese (shredded), 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
  12. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream.
  13. Transfer the mixture to a greased 2-quart ramekin or similar baking dish.
  14. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan cheese.
  15. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the orzo.
  16. Dot the top with 1 tablespoon of butter, cut into small pieces.
  17. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  18. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

45 g

Sugar

25g

Fat

55g

Carbs

20g

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Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Sweets & Sides Side Dishes European Italian Mediterranean American Summer Recipes Baking 30 Minutes Or Less

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Side Dishes Pasta Pasta Rice And Grains