Dinner

Creamy Baked Orzo with Meatballs Recipe

ByClara Bennett November 15, 2025November 15, 2025

Introduction

This creamy baked orzo with meatballs is a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender orzo pasta with savory meatballs and a rich tomato broth, it’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

The image shows a close-up of a creamy dish with about three layers: a base layer of orange-yellow orzo pasta coated in sauce, mixed with pieces of light brown chicken; a middle layer of bright red cherry tomato halves scattered on top; and a finishing layer of white grated cheese sprinkled generously over the pasta and chicken. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on different spots across the dish, adding a vibrant touch. The textures include the creamy pasta, soft chicken, juicy tomatoes, and crumbly cheese. The dish rests on a surface with a white marbled texture and a wooden spoon is partially visible on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces DeLallo orzo
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups ready-to-serve tomato soup
2-3 cups premade chicken meatballs (store-bought frozen or homemade)
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh basil for topping
Olive oil for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a 9×13 baking dish, combine the orzo, broth, tomato soup, meatballs, and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir well to coat and mix everything evenly.
Step 2: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, then stir gently and check the orzo’s texture. If it needs more time, bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the liquid fully.
Step 3: Fluff the orzo with a fork and stir in any remaining liquid around the edges. This will help break down the tomatoes and release their juices into the dish.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan, minced garlic, and butter. Stir until melted and fully incorporated.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tips & Variations

You can substitute chicken meatballs with beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Use fresh tomato sauce instead of ready-to-serve tomato soup for a fresher taste.
Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in this creamy dish.
Garnish with extra Parmesan or mozzarella for more cheesiness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white rectangular baking dish filled with a creamy orange risotto that has tender orzo grains as the base layer, mixed with cooked small meat pieces in a brown shade, and halved bright red cherry tomatoes scattered evenly throughout. The top layer is sprinkled with white grated cheese and fresh bright green basil leaves placed on top for garnish. The dish rests on a white marbled surface, and a small white bowl filled with more grated cheese is partially visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meatballs and consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.