Orzo Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining tender beef, orzo pasta, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute and brown the shortening, chopped beef, chopped onion, and diced pepper.
- Drain excess fat from the mixture.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, water, crushed tomatoes, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Mix well and transfer to a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you don't have orzo, any small pasta or rice can work in this casserole. Be sure to sauté the vegetables until they're tender for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This orzo casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, serve alongside Gracious Meat Loaf or your favorite American recipes to create a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orzo Casserole contains roughly 1255 calories, with 37g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), protein (74% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1132mg per serving (49% 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 stage and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a simple homemade version by combining equal parts of milk and flour with sautéed mushrooms and seasonings. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor without the preservatives found in canned options.
Can I freeze the orzo casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).