Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes

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jeremy
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Boursin-Orzo-Bake-with-Cherry-Tomatoes-Recipe

Boursin Baked Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes is one of those dishes that perfectly embodies comfort food. Imagine the creamy richness of Boursin cheese melting into a vibrant dish of orzo, cherry tomatoes, and fresh arugula. This delightful casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that bursts with flavor and personality. It’s hard to resist the combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, savory garlic, and aromatic basil, all enveloped in a cheesy embrace. With every forkful, you’ll experience a beautiful balance of textures—from the tender orzo to the juicy tomatoes.

Boursin Orzo Bake With Cherry Tomatoes
Boursin Orzo Bake With Cherry Tomatoes 9

I first made this dish during a cozy weekend gathering, looking for something effortless yet impressive. It didn’t disappoint! The great thing about this Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes is that it satisfies a wide range of cravings—whether you’re in the mood for something hearty, creamy, or simply delicious. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or laid-back dinner parties. I can’t wait for you to try this creamy, dreamy bake that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep, this dish comes together easily, perfect for busy nights.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The creamy Boursin cheese melds beautifully with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and a hint of garlic.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making for a show-stopping centerpiece at any meal.
  • Flexible Serving: Enjoy as a main dish, a side, or even a potluck contribution that everyone will love.
  • Diet-Friendly Options: Easily made vegetarian; swap in gluten-free orzo for dietary accommodations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth: The broth adds depth flavor; vegetable broth is recommended for a rich taste.
  • 1 tablespoon better than bouillon vegetable base: Omit if you are using vegetable broth; this bas enhances the dish’s savoriness.
  • Olive oil: Just a drizzle for sautéing and adding flavor; feel free to use any neutral oil.
  • 1 pint (10-12 ounces) cherry tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a sweet pop; grape tomatoes work as a substitute.
  • 1 medium shallot: Milder than onion, shallots add subtle sweetness; onions can work in a pinch.
  • 3 cloves garlic: Minced garlic enriches the overall profile; use as much or as little as you prefer.
  • 1 ½ cups dry orzo: This small pasta is perfect for cozy bakes; substitute with similar-sized pasta if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon dry basil: Dried basil contributes aromatic herbs; fresh basil can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Adjust to taste; fine sea salt can be used, but start with less.
  • 15-ounce can cannellini beans: They add protein and hearty texture; navy beans or chickpeas can be options.
  • 5.3-ounce Boursin garlic & fine herbs: Creamy and flavorful; substitute with herbed cream cheese if necessary.
  • 4 ounces arugula: Roughly chopped for added nutrition; spinach or kale can be substituted.
  • Freshly ground black pepper and red pepper flakes: To taste, adds a nice kick if you’re feeling spicy.
  • 1 medium lemon: Sliced into wedges for a citrus finish, brightening up the dish perfectly.

How to Make Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes

  1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 400°F. Heat 3 cups of water in a kettle or on the stovetop until it’s boiling, then stir in 1 tablespoon of better than bouillon to dissolve.
  2. Prepare the baking dish: Drizzle olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice your cherry tomatoes in half, finely dice the shallot, and mince the garlic.
  3. Combine the ingredients: In the baking dish, add 1 ½ cups dry orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced shallot, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dry basil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and the 15-ounce can drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Give it a good stir to uniformly mix everything.
  4. Add the Boursin: Make a little space in the center of the baking dish and place the block of Boursin cheese right there. Carefully pour the broth around it, avoiding the cheese directly to preserve its shape.
  5. Bake: Cover the dish with an oven-safe lid, foil, or an upside-down baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, just enough time for the orzo to reach al dente.
  6. Stir & add greens: Once out of the oven, stir the mixture to combine the melted Boursin into the orzo. Toss in 4 ounces of roughly chopped arugula, stirring until it’s wilted. Season with freshly ground black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing zest. Enjoy!

Storing & Reheating

For those times you have leftovers, store the Boursin Orzo Bake in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 hours if it’s still warm. Refrigerate it for up to 4 days for best freshness. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat it at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. Remember, the texture may be a little different after freezing, so you might want to add a splash of broth to refresh it back to life!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Be sure not to rush the baking time; letting it sit undisturbed allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Before you begin, have your ingredients ready to go—good organization makes everything flow smoothly.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can cook the orzo separately until al dente before mixing with other ingredients to cut down on bake time.
  • Adjust the creaminess by incorporating a bit more broth if you prefer a saucier dish.
  • This recipe is fantastic made ahead of time; prepare it up to the baking step, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready.

It’s hard to go wrong when you’ve got creamy Boursin cheese at the heart of your dish! This recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere around the dining table. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck with friends, the Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and let the oven work its magic. You will love experimenting with different veggies and cheese flavors to make it your own. Enjoy every cheesy mouthful!

Boursin Orzo Bake With Cherry Tomatoes
Boursin Orzo Bake With Cherry Tomatoes 10

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of Boursin?

Absolutely! If Boursin isn’t available, herbed cream cheese, goat cheese, or even ricotta can work nicely. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on the creaminess you desire.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

To boost protein, consider adding cooked diced chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even some sautéed mushrooms. You could also double the amount of cannellini beans for extra fiber and protein!

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply replace Boursin with a plant-based cream cheese and use vegetable broth. Ensure that you are using a vegan-friendly pasta option as well, and you’re all set!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Certainly! You can assemble everything in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going directly from the fridge to the oven.

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Boursin-Orzo-Bake-With-Cherry-Tomatoes-Recipe

Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes

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Savor the flavors of Boursin Orzo Bake with Cherry Tomatoes. This comforting dish combines creamy Boursin cheese, tender orzo, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon better than bouillon vegetable base omit if using veg broth
  • olive oil as needed
  • 1 pint (1012 ounces) cherry tomatoes
  • 1 medium shallot
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 ½ cups dry orzo
  • 1 teaspoon dry basil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 15 ounce can cannellini beans drained and rinsed
  • 5.3 ounce boursin garlic & fine herbs
  • 4 ounces (or handfuls) arugula roughly chopped (optional, makes it easier to eat)
  • freshly ground black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste
  • 1 medium lemon sliced into wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F. Heat 3 cups of water until boiling and stir in the bouillon to dissolve.
  2. Drizzle olive oil in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the shallot, and mince the garlic.
  3. Add orzo, cherry tomatoes, shallot, garlic, basil, salt, and rinsed cannellini beans to the baking dish. Stir thoroughly.
  4. Create a space in the center of the dish and place the block of Boursin cheese there. Carefully pour the broth around the cheese, avoiding direct contact with it. Do not stir.
  5. Cover the baking dish with a lid, foil, or an upside-down baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until the orzo is al dente. Remove, then stir to mix in the cheese.
  6. Incorporate the arugula, stirring until wilted. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve with lemon wedges.

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Notes

For added flavor, you can roast the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the dish.
This meal can be served as a main course or a hearty side dish.
Feel free to swap out arugula for your favorite greens.

  • Author: jeremy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 345
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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