Easiest One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake

Looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion? This One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is the answer! Packed with flavors of cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This dish can easily be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredient Notes:

• Cherry tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich and smooth texture to the orzo.
• Garlic and shallot: Infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fresh and herbaceous element.
• Chili flakes: For a hint of spice.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
• Dry orzo pasta: The base of the dish.
• Basil pesto: Adds a rich and savory flavor.
• Sliced peperoncinis: Optional for a tangy kick.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the orzo.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven and prepare a baking dish.
2. In a pan, sauté cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallot, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add orzo, basil pesto, and peperoncinis to the pan.
4. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Helpful Tips:

• For a vegetarian option, omit the peperoncinis or substitute with roasted red peppers.
• To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo pasta.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavors.
2. Don’t overcook the orzo to avoid mushiness.
3. Customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or protein.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake with a side salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes, you can use any small pasta shape for this recipe.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, prepare the dish up until baking, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

1. Can I freeze leftovers?

• While you can freeze leftovers, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?

• Absolutely, store-bought pesto works well in this recipe.

Conclusion:

This One Pan Caprese Pesto Orzo Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors it has to offer!

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