Baked Tomatoes With Basil Orzo Recipe

Name: Baked Tomatoes With Basil Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large tomatoes; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large shallot, peeled and chopped; 12 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 1 garlic clove, peeled and minced; 14 lb orzo pasta; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups chicken broth; ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; ⅛ cup pine nuts, toasted; 1 ½ tablespoons pesto sauce, bottled (or refrigerated from deli)

Servings: persons

4 large tomatoes
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large shallot, peeled and chopped
12 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 garlic clove, peeled and minced
14 lb orzo pasta
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
⅛ cup pine nuts, toasted
1 ½ tablespoons pesto sauce, bottled (or refrigerated from deli)

1
Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
2
Sprinkle the insides with salt and drain upside down on paper towels for half hour.
3
Melt the butter in a 2-quart skillet; add the shallot, red pepper and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4
Add the orzo and pepper.
5
Simmer 2 minutes.
6
Pour in 1 cup broth and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed.
7
Add 1/2 cup broth and repeat cooking.
8
Add 1/4 cup more broth and simmer until orzo is tender.
9
Remove from heat and add the cheese, pine nuts and pesto.
10
Mix well and fill hollow tomatoes with mixture.
11
Place tomatoes in a baking dish and pour remaining broth around tomatoes and cover with foil.
12
Bake in pre-heated 400-degree F. oven for 15 minutes.
13
Remove foil and bake 10 minutes longer.

6357

kcal

Calories

Fat

1206

Carbs

252

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 4 large tomatoes, ¼ teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 large shallot, peeled and chopped, and more.

Yes, Baked Tomatoes With Basil Orzo falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Baked Tomatoes With Basil Orzo

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions