Cheesy Baked Orzo with Roasted Peppers
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Baked Orzo with Roasted Peppers, a delightful fusion of creamy cheese, vibrant vegetables, and tender pasta. This dish features al dente orzo pasta mixed with sweet roasted red peppers and zesty green chili peppers, all enveloped in a rich layer of sour cream. Topped with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this baked dish offers a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining creamy on the inside. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
N/A
Servings
350
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Roasted red pepper
1/2 cup (diced)
Green chili pepper
1/3 cup (diced)
Sour cream
1 cup (none)
Butter
2 tablespoons (cut into small pieces)
Orzo pasta
1 cup (none)
Mozzarella cheese
1 cup (grated)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta for 10 to 12 minutes until tender. Drain well and set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, diced roasted red peppers, diced green chili peppers, and grated mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.
4
Grease a casserole dish with butter. Transfer the orzo mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5
Spread the sour cream evenly over the top of the orzo mixture, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
6
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the sour cream layer.
7
Dot the top with small pieces of butter for added richness.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed.
9
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
20
Fat
30
Carbs
12
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to boil the orzo pasta?
The orzo pasta should be cooked in boiling salted water for 10 to 12 minutes until it reaches a tender, al dente consistency.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C) for baking the dish.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains pasta, vegetables, and dairy products without any meat.
How many calories are in a serving of Cheesy Baked Orzo?
There are approximately 350 calories per serving of this dish.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute for sour cream if you prefer a different tang or texture.
What type of peppers are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1/2 cup of diced roasted red peppers and 1/3 cup of diced green chili peppers.
How long does the dish need to bake?
The dish should be baked for 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and puffed.
What should I use to grease the casserole dish?
Use butter to grease the casserole dish to ensure the orzo doesn't stick and to add extra flavor.
Is there protein in this dish?
Yes, each serving contains about 12 grams of protein, primarily from the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While mozzarella and Parmesan are recommended for their melting properties and flavor, you can try fontina or mild white cheddar as alternatives.
Does this recipe contain gluten?
Yes, standard orzo pasta is made from wheat and contains gluten. You would need a gluten-free orzo substitute to make it gluten-free.
What is the role of the butter on top?
Dotting the top with small pieces of butter before baking adds richness and helps create a beautiful golden brown crust.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it just before serving, though you may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
Is the dish spicy?
The green chili peppers provide a mild zest, but the dish is generally considered mild and comforting rather than spicy.
What is orzo pasta?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that is excellent for absorbing creamy sauces and baking in casseroles.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked shredded chicken or sautéed Italian sausage would be great additions to this baked orzo.
How much orzo is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of dry orzo pasta.
Do I mix the sour cream into the pasta?
No, the instructions specify to spread the sour cream evenly over the top of the orzo mixture rather than mixing it in.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use fresh peppers instead of roasted?
You can use fresh peppers, but it is recommended to sauté or roast them first to ensure they are tender and have developed flavor before baking.
How do I know when the orzo is perfectly baked?
The top should look puffed and have a golden-brown color from the Parmesan and butter.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.
Is the orzo cooked before baking?
Yes, you must boil and drain the orzo pasta before mixing it with the other ingredients for the casserole.
What type of mozzarella should I use?
Low-moisture shredded mozzarella is best for this bake as it melts evenly without adding too much liquid.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to keep the pasta moist.
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, low-fat sour cream can be used, though the final dish may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Why let it cool slightly before serving?
Letting it rest for a few minutes allows the cheese and sour cream layers to set, making it easier to serve clean portions.