Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables

Update : January 28, 2026

Cheesy baked orzo with colorful vegetables in a casserole dish

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The colorful mix of veggies adds nutrition, and the cheesy elements make it comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs!

How to Make Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables

Ingredients:

1 onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups mushrooms, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried parsley
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
1½ cups ricotta cheese
1 lb orzo (about 2½ cups)
2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella
Fresh basil to serve

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a 9×13-inch dish, mix the diced onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, minced garlic, dried herbs, and salt with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach until it wilts. Then, add the diced tomatoes, ricotta, orzo, and broth. Mix everything well.
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Give it a stir, then bake for another 10–15 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Top with shredded mozzarella and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra touch, you can broil it for 1–2 minutes.

For more detailed steps, tips, and photos, you can check out the recipe here.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables

Serve the Cheesy Baked Orzo hot from the oven. You can garnish it with fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread to make it a complete meal. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to Store Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Orzo with Vegetables

Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have at home or what’s in season.
If you prefer a bit more spice, add extra red pepper flakes to your taste.
For a creamier texture, mix in a bit more ricotta cheese before baking.

Variation

You can easily turn this recipe into a meat lover’s dish by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or ground meat of your choice. Just stir it in with the vegetables at the start.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different pasta shape, but the cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on it while baking.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and make sure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.