Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Name: Baked Feta Orzo Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups orzo pasta; 7 ounces feta cheese block; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 5 ounces baby spinach; 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 9 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 10, 2025

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Introduction to Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet quick. Baked Feta Orzo Spinach is a creamy, flavorful delight that’s sure to impress your family. Imagine pasta coated in the warm embrace of melted feta, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes. This dish not only tastes wonderful but also comes together in just 40 minutes. It’s simple enough for a casual dinner yet elegant enough for guests. Trust me, this is one dish you’ll want to whip up time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

This Baked Feta Orzo Spinach is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals. It’s made with simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. In just one baking dish, you’ll have a stunning meal that delights the senses. Plus, it’s super easy to adapt based on what you have at home! Say goodbye to dinner stress and hello to a delicious, creamy pasta dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delightful Baked Feta Orzo Spinach. Here’s what you’ll need:

Orzo pasta: A delightful little rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Feta cheese: The star of the show! A creamy block that adds saltiness and tang, melting wonderfully in the oven.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese brings an extra layer of creaminess to the dish, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Olive oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil adds richness and helps the vegetables roast beautifully.
Baby spinach: Fresh greens that cook down to nothing but add a healthy touch and a pop of color.
Red onion: Thinly sliced, it caramelizes in the oven, bringing sweetness to the mix.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives a punch of flavor, making everything taste even more divine.
Cherry tomatoes: These sweet beauties burst with flavor as they roast, adding juiciness to every bite.
Lemon: Use the zest and juice for brightness; it elevates all the other flavors fantastically.
Dried oregano: This herb brings a lovely Mediterranean vibe to the dish.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat! Add according to your palate.
Salt and black pepper: Essentials for seasoning! A little goes a long way to enhance flavors.
Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped as a garnish, they add freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in this creamy pasta dish. Feel free to adjust based on what you have handy! For exact measurements, you’ll find them at the bottom of the article—easy for printing when you get ready to cook.

How to Make Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure! Making Baked Feta Orzo Spinach is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience filled with joy. Let’s follow the steps together.

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first, we need to preheat our oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that our dish cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color. Trust me, the aroma will start filling your kitchen soon!

Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish

Next, take a large ovenproof baking dish and drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil at the bottom. This will create a non-stick surface, allowing all those delicious ingredients to shine. Place the feta cheese block in the center. Then, surround it with diced cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle your remaining olive oil over the top. Sprinkle oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and ground black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated, as this will be where all the magic happens!

Step 3: Roast Feta and Vegetables

Now, it’s time to roast our feta and vegetables! Pop the baking dish into the oven and let it roast for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for that perfectly soft feta and slightly blistered tomatoes. This stage is where all those flavors meld together, creating a tantalizing aroma!

Step 4: Cook Orzo

While everything is roasting, let’s get our orzo cooking. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and let it cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. Keep an eye on it! Once done, remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining it. This magic water will help bring our dish to a creamy perfection!

Step 5: Combine Cream Cheese and Lemon

Once the roasted dish is ready, carefully take it out from the oven. Add your softened cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice right into the baking dish. Gently stir everything together, breaking up the feta while mixing with the roasted veggies. The heat will help the cream cheese melt and create a luscious sauce!

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Orzo

Now comes the fun part! Toss in the fresh baby spinach and the cooked orzo into the baking dish. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and your pasta is nicely coated in that creamy sauce. If it seems a bit dry, don’t forget to use some of that reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Finally, it’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning. A little more salt or pepper can make a world of difference! Once it’s just right, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for some color and freshness. Serve it warm, and get ready to feel proud of this lovely, creamy pasta dish!

Tips for Success

Don’t rush the roasting! Letting the feta and vegetables blister will deepen the flavor.
Always reserve some pasta water; it’s the secret to a creamy sauce!
Adjust the seasoning gradually to find that perfect balance of flavors.
Try adding other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
For an even creamier texture, use a little extra cream cheese.

Equipment Needed

Large ovenproof baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works great, but any similar size will do.
Large pot: Use a standard cooking pot for boiling orzo, large enough to hold plenty of water.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for mixing everything together without scratching your baking dish.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helpful for accurate ingredient portions; don’t worry if you eyeball it sometimes!

Variations of Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.
Different Cheeses: Swap out feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
Seasonal Veggies: Experiment with seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for a fresh twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute it with quinoa for a healthy alternative.
Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill instead of basil or parsley for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Pair with a Crisp Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
Serve with Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread makes a perfect complement to soak up that creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
Presentation: Serve in a beautiful dish topped with extra herbs for a stunning table display.

FAQs about Baked Feta Orzo Spinach

Can I make Baked Feta Orzo Spinach ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the baked feta and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them on the day you want to serve it, and toss with orzo and spinach before serving.

What can I substitute for orzo?

If orzo isn’t your thing, you can try farro, quinoa, or even couscous as delicious alternatives. They each bring a unique texture and flavor to this creamy pasta dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Baked Feta Orzo Spinach is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for about 3 days, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

How can I customize the level of spice?

To adjust the spice level, simply modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Skip them completely for a milder dish or add more for a spicy kick. You control the heat!

Can this dish be frozen?

While I recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Orzo Spinach is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey for your taste buds and a solution to the dinner-time dilemma. Each creamy, flavorful bite reminds me of cozy family gatherings and joyful weeknight dinners. This recipe not only fills bellies but warms hearts, making it a beloved staple in my kitchen. I hope it brings you just as much joy and satisfaction. So, gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in this loving embrace of flavors. Trust me, everyone will come back for seconds!