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Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake

Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This easy one-pan Caprese pesto orzo bake is the perfect comfort meal! Juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil combine with tender orzo, zesty peperoncinis, and melty mozzarella for a deliciously cheesy, pesto-infused dish. A simple, flavorful weeknight dinner ready in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 2-3 cups cherry tomatoes

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped

  • 1 shallot, chopped

  • 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped

  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 lb dry orzo pasta

  • 1 (8 oz) jar basil pesto

  • 2-3 tbsp sliced peperoncinis

 

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:

    • Set the oven to 400°F (204°C).

  • Roast the Tomatoes:

    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, shallots, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

    • Roast in the oven for 10 minutes.

  • Add the Orzo and Pesto:

    • Remove the baking dish from the oven.

    • Stir in the orzo, pesto, and sliced peperoncinis.

    • Pour in 2 1/2 cups of water and mix well.

  • Bake the Orzo:

    • Return the dish to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until most of the water is absorbed but not completely dry.

  • Add Cheese & Final Bake:

    • Stir the orzo, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

    • Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

 

  • Finish & Serve:

    • If excess oil from the pesto collects on top, carefully drain it off.

    • Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!

Notes

  • Make it Spicier: Add extra chili flakes or drizzle with hot honey before serving.

  • Pasta Texture: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, stir in extra warm water or broth before adding the cheese.

  • Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for extra protein.

 

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 541
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Find it online: https://cooktune.com/caprese-pesto-orzo-bake/