Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comfort, and a touch of elegance, the Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet is exactly what you need. This one-pan wonder combines creamy, tangy feta cheese with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and tender orzo pasta, all infused with fragrant herbs and a hint of spice. It’s a delightful, easy-to-make meal that feels special enough for guests but comes together with minimal effort on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that satisfy both the palate and the soul.

The Upside of Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet

One of the best things about this skillet is its simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The magic happens when the feta cheese roasts alongside cherry tomatoes, creating a luscious sauce that coats each tiny orzo pasta perfectly. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes, accentuated by garlic and herbs. Also, it’s a colorful dish, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

This recipe is incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it as a main dish for dinner, or as a side alongside grilled proteins or a fresh salad. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a hearty, vibrant meal without fuss. The Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet is also a great way to sneak in extra veggies like spinach, making it nourishing as well as delicious.

What’s in the Bowl

• 8 ounces orzo pasta – small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – these burst with sweetness when roasted and balance the tanginess of the feta.
• 8 ounces feta cheese – the star ingredient that melts into a creamy, flavorful sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – adds richness and helps everything roast evenly.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that savory punch and aroma.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic herb that complements Mediterranean flavors.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – adds a sweet, slightly peppery herbal note.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – just enough heat to awaken the taste buds.
• 2 cups spinach, chopped – fresh greens that wilt into the pasta, adding nutrition and color.
• Salt and pepper to taste – to season and enhance all the ingredients.
• Fresh basil, for garnish – bright and fragrant finishing touch.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Oven-safe skillet or baking dish – a 10-inch cast iron or non-stick skillet works great for even roasting.
• Medium saucepan – to cook the orzo pasta separately.
• Mixing bowl – for tossing tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring in spinach and mixing everything together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning and portions.

Directions: Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly coated.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes and Feta

Transfer the tomatoes to your oven-safe skillet, spreading them out evenly. Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the skillet, nestling it among the tomatoes. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and soft.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

While the tomatoes and feta roast, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Wilt Spinach

Remove the skillet from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together to create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked orzo and chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring gently until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the skillet before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, paired with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Orzo Alternatives: Substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous for a different texture.
• Cheese Variations: If you prefer, goat cheese can replace feta for a milder, creamier flavor.
• Greens: Swap spinach with kale or arugula for a peppery twist.
• Heat Level: Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance or omit entirely for a milder dish.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh oregano or basil in place of dried for a brighter herbal note.

Mistakes That Ruin Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet

• Overcooking the orzo can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in the skillet.

• Skipping the roasting step reduces the intensity of the tomato’s sweetness and the feta’s creaminess.

• Not seasoning the tomatoes properly before roasting can result in a bland sauce.

• Adding spinach too early may cause it to become overly wilted and lose its vibrant color.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet can be prepped in advance by roasting the tomatoes and feta the day before and cooking the orzo separately. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the roasted tomatoes and feta in the skillet, stir in the cooked orzo and fresh spinach, and warm everything through until the spinach wilts and the dish is piping hot. Garnish just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! To make a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, or use a tofu-based ricotta. Roasting the tomatoes as usual will still give you that rich, flavorful sauce.

Is it necessary to cook the orzo separately?

Cooking orzo separately ensures it reaches the perfect al dente texture without becoming mushy. While you could cook it directly in the skillet with added water, you risk uneven cooking and a less creamy finish.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes work best because they roast evenly and burst with sweetness. If using larger tomatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces and be aware they may release more water, which can thin out the sauce.

How long will leftovers keep?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce seems dry.

More from the Kitchen

• Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip – A creamy, savory dip perfect for entertaining or snacking.
• Rustic Tomato Basil Buttermilk Pie – A flaky, flavorful pie that highlights fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Jeera Rice Cumin Rice – Aromatic and simple, this Indian-style rice pairs well with many dishes.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve got the recipe for the Baked Feta Tomato Orzo Skillet, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is proof that with just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of oven magic, you can create a meal that’s rich in flavor and soul-satisfying. Whether for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering, this skillet will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve it up, garnish with fresh basil, and savor every bite of this delicious, comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish. Enjoy!

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