Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. With creamy pesto, tender orzo, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, it’s a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Best of all, it all bakes in one pan for minimal cleanup!

Ingredients

For the Dish:

  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pesto Sauce:

 

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves

  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 garlic clove

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Make the Pesto:

  1. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil and lemon juice until the pesto becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Prepare the Orzo Bake:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with olive oil or cooking spray.

  2. Cook the orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and return the orzo to the pot.

  3. Toss the orzo with pesto: While the orzo is still warm, stir in the prepared pesto sauce, making sure the orzo is evenly coated.

  4. Assemble the bake: Pour the pesto-coated orzo into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tomatoes have softened.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful and easy one-pan meal!

Notes

  • For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the orzo bake.

  • You can use store-bought pesto to save time, or substitute the pesto with a simple garlic-basil sauce if preferred.

  • This dish can be easily made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat in the oven until warm.

Find it online: https://cozykitcheneats.com/one-pan-caprese-pesto-orzo-bake-recipe/