Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake

Name: Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love the comforting and nutritious nature of this Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake. It combines tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes, all baked together with a touch of cheese for a delightful meal. This dish not only fills you up, but it also provides a burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, it's an easy one-dish recipe that makes cleanup a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:09:40.286Z

When I first tried the Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a hearty dish. Using fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, I realized that this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while still being healthy. One key tip I've learned is to sauté the spinach with garlic before adding it to the orzo; this brings out a depth of flavor that makes all the difference.

As I perfected the recipe, I experimented with various cheeses and herbs, which truly allowed for incredible variations. Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top before serving elevates the dish further, turning it into a delightful way to brighten up your dinner table. This dish is not only visually appealing, but it tastes amazing too!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome combination of spinach and tomatoes
Cheesy, comforting texture that warms the heart
Perfect as a side dish or a main course

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of orzo pasta, spinach, and tomatoes creates a satisfying dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, soaks up flavors beautifully and provides a delightful chewy texture. Ensure that you cook the orzo until al dente so it retains its shape during baking. This contrasts nicely with the tender, wilted spinach and juicy tomatoes, adding depth and variety to each bite.

Using fresh spinach not only enhances the dish's color but also its nutritional profile. Spinach is packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with frozen spinach; however, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Perfect Baking Techniques

Getting the baking time just right is crucial for achieving a golden, bubbly top that’s perfectly melted. Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) allows the cheese to melt evenly without burning. Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes; the final minute or two can make the difference between perfect mozzarella and dried-out cheese. Look for a golden hue and bubbling edges as indicators of doneness.

For a twist on texture, consider broiling the bake for the last 2-3 minutes. Broiling gives the top a crispy finish while keeping the center warm and creamy. Just be sure to watch it closely, as broilers can quickly turn a perfect cheese topping into a charred disaster.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this bake:

For the Bake

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake:

Cook the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed spinach, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and enjoy your Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake!

Enjoy your delicious bake as a main course or a hearty side dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can incorporate some red pepper flakes for a bit of spice. Also, using fresh herbs like oregano or thyme will elevate this dish even more.

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach Tomato Orzo Bake stands well on its own as a main dish but can also pair beautifully with protein options. Grilled chicken or shrimp can enhance the meal’s protein content and complement the flavors in the bake. For a lighter option, serve with a side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.

For a vegetarian twist, try adding other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes. These can be sautéed along with the spinach and will contribute additional flavors and textures to the bake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you're ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even baking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, around 15-20 minutes. You may want to add a splash of water or an extra sprinkle of cheese before reheating to keep it moist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it features wholesome vegetables and cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this bake?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a boost of protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.