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Creamy Baked Orzo with Meatballs Recipe

Creamy Baked Orzo with Meatballs Recipe


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4.7 from 23 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Baked Orzo with Meatballs is a delicious one-pot meal that combines tender orzo pasta with homemade meatballs in a rich and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese. This comforting dish is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or special gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo:

  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Make the Meatballs: Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
  3. Sear the Meatballs: Brown meatballs in a skillet, then set aside.
  4. Prepare the Orzo: Toast orzo in the skillet, add broth, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place meatballs in the orzo, top with spinach, cheeses, and bake covered.
  5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, then broil for a golden top.
  6. Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half or ground chicken.
  • This dish reheats well for convenient leftovers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg