One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake Recipe

This One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort food made simple. Bursting with fresh basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and al dente orzo pasta, it’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this dish is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake combines the best of Caprese flavors with the convenience of orzo and pesto. The fresh mozzarella melts perfectly into the orzo, while the cherry tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness. The pesto sauce ties everything together, making this dish a flavorful and satisfying meal. Best of all, it’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is a great option for busy days when you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn into pieces
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the orzo lightly. This step helps bring out the nutty flavor of the pasta.
3. Add 2 1/2 cups of water (or chicken broth for extra flavor) to the skillet. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
4. Once the orzo is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the pesto until the orzo is evenly coated.
5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Gently mix everything together, spreading the mozzarella evenly across the top.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: To make this dish heartier, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a can of drained chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
• Add veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions to this dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Swap the cheese: If you prefer, you can use shredded mozzarella or another melty cheese in place of fresh mozzarella.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free pesto and skip the mozzarella and Parmesan to make this dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or extra pesto to restore some moisture.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine in this recipe, but homemade pesto will elevate the flavors even more if you have the time to make it.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, diced into small pieces, if you prefer. Cherry tomatoes are great for their sweetness and juiciness, but any variety will work.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the pesto before mixing it into the orzo.

Can I freeze this dish?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

How do I know when the mozzarella is melted?

The mozzarella will be visibly melted and bubbly after baking. If it hasn’t fully melted after 12 minutes, you can let it bake a bit longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Can I use a non-stick pan for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a non-stick pan if you prefer. However, make sure it’s oven-safe, or transfer the orzo to a baking dish before putting it in the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I add balsamic glaze to the top?

Yes! Drizzling a little balsamic glaze on top before serving adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

The One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto sauce, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup and maximum taste!

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