Baked Feta Orzo is a cozy dish that’s full of flavor! Creamy feta cheese melts together with orzo pasta, tomatoes, and a splash of olive oil, creating a warm meal everyone will love.
This recipe is a game-changer for busy nights. Just throw everything in the oven, and let the magic happen! It’s easy to whip up and even easier to gobble down. 🧀🍝
Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. If you can’t find orzo, couscous or quinoa are great substitutes and will add a slightly different texture.
Feta cheese: The star of the show! If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using a tofu feta or a cashew-based feta for a similar tangy taste.
Cherry tomatoes: These sweet little bursts of flavor are perfect, but any tomatoes cut into chunks will work. Feel free to use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren’t available.
Kalamata olives: If you prefer a milder flavor, green olives can be substituted. They will change the dish’s flavor profile but will still be delicious. Alternatively, omit olives if you’re not a fan.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for this dish, but garlic powder works in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon if opting for the powder.
How Do I Get the Feta Just Right When Baking?
Baking the feta perfectly is key to this dish’s creaminess and flavor. You want it to soften without drying out. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a good quality feta that’s packed in brine for extra moisture.
- Drizzle the feta with olive oil before baking; this helps it remain creamy.
- Check it around 25 minutes into baking. If it’s golden and soft, it’s ready to stir in!
How to Make Baked Feta Orzo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 block (about 7 ounces) feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your dish goes in!
2. Prepare the Orzo Base:
In a baking dish, evenly spread the orzo pasta across the bottom. This will be the delicious base for all your ingredients.
3. Add the Feta:
Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the orzo. It will become creamy and mix with the orzo as it cooks.
4. Arrange the Veggies:
Next, arrange the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives around the feta. They’ll add great flavor and contrast to your dish.
5. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, and optional red chili flakes over everything. This will infuse your dish with wonderful aromas.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Generously drizzle olive oil over the feta, tomatoes, olives, and orzo. This adds richness and helps everything cook nicely.
7. Add the Liquid:
Carefully pour the vegetable or chicken broth (or water) around the feta, making sure the orzo is mostly submerged to cook evenly.
8. Season to Taste:
Lightly season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Just a heads up—feta cheese is quite salty, so be mindful with the added salt!
9. Bake It:
Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. Look for the feta to be soft and golden, the tomatoes to blister and burst, and the orzo to be tender and fully cooked.
10. Mix Everything Together:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and gently stir everything together. Mix the feta, orzo, tomatoes, and olives into a creamy delight.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and drizzle a little more olive oil on top. This adds a fresh touch!
12. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve this dish warm, either as a main course or as a side with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a fantastic option that will add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients. Just keep in mind that it might require a slightly longer cooking time, so check the package instructions for specifics.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, consider using a tofu-based feta or cashew cheese. Both will provide a similar tangy flavor, but you may need to adjust the seasoning to achieve the desired taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Feta Orzo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the tomatoes and olives for extra flavor and nutrition!
