Baked Orzo and Meatballs

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If you’re looking for a comforting, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this Baked Orzo and Meatballs recipe is your answer. The tender, flavorful meatballs nestled in a rich tomato sauce with perfectly cooked orzo create a harmony of flavors that will make this a household favorite. 

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Orzo and Sauce:

  • 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
  • 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Garnish:

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the meatballs:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
  3. Sear the meatballs:
    Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. They don’t need to cook through fully as they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Assemble the dish:
    In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the dried basil or Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
  5. Add the meatballs:
    Nestle the browned meatballs into the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet with foil or a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  6. Add cheese and bake again:
    Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, and return it to the oven (uncovered) for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve:
    Let the dish rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
  8. Tips:
    • For extra veggies, add spinach, diced zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce before baking.
    • If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking.

    This recipe is a delightful blend of hearty and cheesy goodness that will bring smiles to your table!

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