Best Ever Baked Feta Orzo with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

Best Baked Feta Orzo Recipe Mediterranean Comfort

By Kendra ThompsonSeptember 8, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a Dinner With Things You Already Have ? Ever get that craving for something comforting and flavourful, but can't be arsed with a massive cooking project? I know, right? This Best Baked Feta Orzo recipe is your answer.

It's proper lush, tastes amazing and it's basically Comfort Healthy Dinner .

It's basically a Greek baked feta orzo in your kitchen. Baked feta pasta had its moment, but honestly? Orzo gives it so much more bite.

Plus, it's dead easy. Think 45 minutes max, and that includes prep! This recipe serves 4 hungry people, perfect for a Dinner For A Crowd Healthy or just a generous helping for yourself.

Why You'll Love This Feta Orzo Pasta

This isn't just some random recipe. I am telling you it is special because it tastes amazing. The health boost from the tomatoes and the Mediterranean vibe makes you feel good.

Think of it as a hug in a bowl, perfect for a Weeknight orzo dinner , especially as it is a perfect Vegetarian feta orzo option.

Honestly, once you try it, it'll be on repeat.

The Lowdown on Mediterranean Orzo Bake

This recipe draws inspiration from the classic Mediterranean diet, known for its fresh ingredients and healthy fats. Originating from the sunny shores of Greece, the Mediterranean orzo bake is a simple and healthy way to enjoy vibrant flavors.

It takes about 15 minutes to get everything ready, and then 30 minutes in the oven, so just under an hour to get an outstanding Dinner With Things You Already Have

Health Benefits and Occasions

Did you know the Mediterranean diet is linked to a lower risk of heart disease? This dish is packed with heart healthy fats from the olive oil and the veg.

This Feta Orzo Pasta is perfect for a casual get-together with mates, a quick weeknight orzo dinner , or even a posh packed lunch.

It’s proper versatile. Get ready to impress with one of my Orzo pasta recipes easy ! And if you're feeling adventurous, there are lots of Baked feta pasta variations you can try.

But first, let's nail this base recipe. Get your ingredients ready.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Baked Feta Orzo

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this Best Baked Feta Orzo . Trust me, it's simpler than you think and perfect for a Dinner With Things You Already Have .

This version uses orzo pasta. It's perfect Comfort Healthy Dinner material. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for a Dinner For A Crowd Healthy .

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Precise

Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (567g) . Halve them if they are massive.
Garlic: 4 cloves , minced finely.
Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml) , plus extra for drizzling.
Feta Cheese: 1 block (8 oz / 225g) . Go for Greek feta if you can.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon .
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon . Optional but recommended!
Salt & Pepper: To taste, obviously.
Orzo Pasta: 1 cup (200g) .
Vegetable Broth/Water: 2 cups (475ml) .
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup (packed) , chopped.

Honestly, the feta makes or breaks this. Get a decent block, the kind swimming in brine. It has a better flavour and texture than the pre-crumbled stuff.

That’s your ticket to a Greek baked feta orzo dream!

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

Oregano is key for that Mediterranean orzo bake flavour. Red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, if you're into that.

For a richer flavour, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika. You can easily adapt this recipe for baked feta pasta variations .

This is a fantastic Vegetarian feta orzo .

For substitutions, dried thyme can work in a pinch.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

9x13 inch Baking Dish: For that lovely baking action.
Large Pot: To cook the orzo.
Colander: To drain the orzo.

No fancy gadgets needed. A casserole dish does the trick. Honestly, you could even use a roasting tray. It's all about making Orzo pasta recipes easy .

This could be your next Weeknight orzo dinner sorted!

Right, let's get down to business! This Best Baked Feta Orzo is proper lush and surprisingly easy, perfect for a Dinner With Things You Already Have .

Honestly, it’s quicker than ordering a takeaway.

Let's Bake Some Mediterranean Magic

Think of it as a pimped-up version of that viral baked feta pasta, but with orzo for a bit more oomph .

We're talking Mediterranean flavours, sunshine on a plate. It's a guaranteed winner for a Comfort Healthy Dinner or even a Dinner For A Crowd Healthy everyone loves it.

Prep Like a Pro: It's All About the Setup

Essential mise en place is key. Halve that pint of cherry tomatoes, mince those 4 cloves of garlic. Grab your 8 oz block of feta and get it ready for its cheesy destiny.

This helps things move lightning fast when the oven's hot.

step-by-step to Feta Orzo Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Get that heat cranked up.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, mix those halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, ¼ cup of olive oil, oregano, and those red pepper flakes if you fancy a bit of a kick! Season well.
Nestle that feta block right in the middle of the tomato party. Drizzle it with a bit more olive oil.
Bake for 30 minutes , until the feta's all soft and melty and the tomatoes are bursting.
While that's happening, cook the orzo. 1 cup orzo and 2 cups of broth in a large pot. Drain it well after.
Mash it all together! Use a fork to squish the feta and tomatoes into a delicious sauce.
Stir in the cooked orzo, and the ¼ cup of chopped basil. Give it a good toss, making sure everything's coated.

Pro Tips for Feta Orzo Awesomeness

Don't overcook the orzo! You want it al dente, not mushy. Nobody likes mushy orzo.

If you are using some Baked feta pasta variations , feel free to change up the herbs. Thyme or rosemary are divine.

Consider this Greek baked feta orzo as a Weeknight orzo dinner

Recipe Notes for the Best Baked Feta Orzo

Right then, let's talk about making this Best Baked Feta Orzo absolutely perfect! It's honestly so simple, it's almost criminal.

But a few little tweaks can make all the difference. This Dinner With Things You Already Have will be your new go-to.

Serving It Up Right

Fancy a bit of posh nosh? Plate your Greek baked feta orzo with a sprinkle of extra basil. A drizzle of olive oil makes it look extra appealing.

Serve it with some crusty bread to mop up all that yummy sauce. A simple green salad on the side works a treat, too.

And if you're feeling fancy, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc never goes amiss. This Dinner For A Crowd Healthy is a winner!

Storing Your Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop them in an airtight container. They'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

I like to reheat them in the microwave or oven. If you are using an oven, you must add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezing isn't ideal. The feta can get a bit crumbly. It’s always better fresh, you know?

Playing Around with Flavours: Baked Feta Pasta Variations

Want to mix things up? No worries! For a Vegetarian feta orzo , you're already set! You could easily add grilled chicken or prawns for some protein.

Fancy a kick? Chuck in a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s really fun playing around.

Got a friend who's gone vegan? Switch the feta for a vegan alternative. Making this Orzo pasta recipes easy is dead simple. The Mediterranean orzo bake is so versatile!

Nutrition Basics: Comfort Healthy Dinner

Okay, so this isn’t exactly health food. But it's got some goodness in it! We're talking protein from the feta, and tomatoes packed with vitamins.

Each serving has roughly 450 calories, 18g of protein, 25g of fat, and 40g of carbs. Remember, this is just an estimate.

Check the labels on your ingredients if you're counting every calorie. It is a great Weeknight orzo dinner

Honestly, this Feta Orzo Pasta is a winner. It’s a proper, delicious meal with minimum fuss. It's bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Go on, give it a go. You won't regret it!.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my Best Baked Feta Orzo comes out a little dry? It's not quite "Bob's your uncle"!

No worries, we've all been there! If your orzo looks a bit dry after baking, try stirring in a splash of the reserved orzo cooking water. Alternatively, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil will add moisture and richness. Remember, a little goes a long way.

Can I prepare the Best Baked Feta Orzo ahead of time?

You certainly can. You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through properly, and the feta is perfectly melted.

Just like waiting for the kettle to boil, a bit of patience is key!

How do I store leftovers of this Best Baked Feta Orzo recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the orzo, as it tends to absorb the sauce as it sits. A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle reheat in a pan will do the trick.

I'm not a massive fan of feta, is there a good substitute I can use in the Best Baked Feta Orzo?

Halloumi is a great alternative to feta and works incredibly well baked. Adjust the baking time and observe when it becomes golden brown and slightly soft. You could also try a firm ricotta salata for a milder flavor.

Can I add extra vegetables to this Best Baked Feta Orzo recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the baking dish along with the tomatoes. Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and olives would all be delicious additions. Toss them with the tomatoes and garlic before baking, and just be sure to adjust the baking time if you're adding a lot of extra veg to ensure they're cooked through.

Is this Best Baked Feta Orzo recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

This dish can be a part of a balanced diet. It provides protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, but it is also relatively high in sodium due to the feta cheese. Consider using low-sodium broth, controlling your salt seasoning, and pairing it with a generous portion of greens to create a healthier, balanced meal.

Remember everything in moderation!