One-Tray Baked Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Creamy, Easy, and Bursting with Flavor

ByTeasty Recipes
Highly realistic image of a one-tray baked orzo dish with creamy sauce, roasted cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. The dish is garnished with a sprinkle of cheese, served in a white casserole dish on a wooden table. The tomatoes are slightly charred, and the spinach adds a fresh, vibrant color to the creamy orzo. Set in a cozy kitchen environment with natural lighting highlighting the textures and colors of the ingredients.

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this One-Tray Baked Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is perfect! With a creamy texture, rich flavors, and minimal cleanup, this dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like cherry tomatoes, white beans, and spinach, making it both satisfying and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-tray simplicity: Everything cooks in one dish—no extra pots or pans required.
  • Creamy and rich: Roasted garlic and vegan cream cheese (or coconut milk) create a luxurious sauce.
  • Nutritious and hearty: Loaded with cherry tomatoes, white beans, and spinach for a balanced meal.
  • Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Orzo: A small pasta that absorbs the delicious flavors.
  • Vegetable broth: Adds depth and richness to the orzo.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they roast to perfection.
  • Garlic bulb: Roasting garlic mellows its flavor, adding a creamy texture.
  • Vegan cream cheese or coconut milk: Creates the creamy sauce.
  • White beans: Adds heartiness and protein.
  • Spinach: For added nutrients and color.
  • Olive oil: Helps the tomatoes and garlic roast beautifully.
  • Herbs and spices: A mix of oregano, basil, and smoked paprika for added flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To enhance all the flavors.

How to Make One-Tray Baked Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients.

2. Prep the Tray

In a large baking tray, add cherry tomatoes and a whole garlic bulb (cut the top off). If you’re using vegan cream cheese, place it in the center. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, basil, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper. Cover with foil.

3. Roast to Perfection

Roast in the oven until the tomatoes are blistered, garlic is soft, and the vegan cream cheese has melted into creamy goodness.

4. Cook the Orzo

While the veggies roast, cook orzo in vegetable broth according to package instructions. Set aside.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce

After roasting, squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins and mix with the tomatoes. If using vegan cream cheese, mix it in; if using coconut milk, pour it into the tray and stir until smooth.

6. Combine Everything

Add the cooked orzo, white beans, and spinach to the tray. Stir everything to combine, letting the sauce coat the orzo and beans while the spinach wilts.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve warm!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Orzo

  • Add spice: Throw in red pepper flakes for a kick.
  • Extra veggies: Zucchini or bell peppers make great additions.
  • Meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully for next-day meals.

Recipe Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
  • Add extra beans or tofu for more protein.
  • Experiment with additional vegetables to customize the dish.

This creamy, vegan One-Tray Baked Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect easy meal. Give it a try for a hassle-free, delicious dinner!