Go Back
–+ servings
French Onion Orzo Bake

French Onion Orzo Bake: Your New Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Experience the rich flavors of French Onion Orzo Bake, a cozy vegetarian dish perfect for meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French, Vegetarian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and facilitates caramelization.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Enhances flavor and ensures even cooking.
  • 3 medium Yellow Onions Caramelized for deep flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Adds earthy richness.
For the Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Introduces mild heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar Enhances flavor by deglazing skillet.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta Absorbs flavors and contributes to creaminess.
  • 3 cups Beef Broth Rich flavor; can substitute with vegetable broth.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a creamy sauce.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Adds nutty flavor.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Contributes creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds sharpness and helps achieve a golden crust.
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh Parsley or Chives Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt unsalted butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add sliced yellow onions, stir frequently, and caramelize for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and fresh thyme, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar.
  5. Add dry orzo and pour in beef broth, bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
  6. Fold in half of the Gruyère and mozzarella cheese until melted, then scatter remaining cheese on top.
  7. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10–15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 345mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow onions to caramelize slowly and use freshly grated cheese for better melting.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!