Baked Orzo Casserole
A creamy baked orzo casserole featuring melted Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses, vibrant red bell peppers, and spicy chiles, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine cooked orzo, grated Monterey Jack cheese, and diced chiles in the dish.
- Spread sour cream evenly on top of the mixture.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the sour cream.
- Bake at 450°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the sour cream before spreading it on top. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor, or use a dairy-free sour cream for a vegan twist. Adding cooked chicken or vegetables can enhance the dish, making it a hearty meal. For added crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This baked orzo casserole makes a delightful main dish, especially when paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or savory pies. Consider serving it alongside Larraine'S Chocolate Chip Cake for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Orzo Casserole contains roughly 360 calories, with 25g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 727mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by a few minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of orzo?
If you don't have orzo, other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe can work well. Alternatively, you could use cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option, which adds a different texture while keeping the dish hearty.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this baked orzo casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. To enhance the flavor, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, making it an even more nutritious vegetarian option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).