Save This baked feta orzo with spinach is the ultimate cozy Mediterranean-inspired dinner, creamy roasted feta melts into burst cherry tomatoes and silky spinach, everything tied together with a bright squeeze of lemon. It is weeknight-friendly yet impressive enough for friends coming over. Whenever I bring this to the table, everyone scoops seconds and there is always a little fight for those golden edges of feta in the dish.
I first tried this as a twist on the viral baked feta pasta and was hooked by how the orzo catches every bit of the creamy sauce. Even my spinach-skeptic loved it after that first bite.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: It keeps the bake comforting and is easy to find at most stores Go for a high-quality Italian brand for the best texture
- Block feta cheese: The heart of the dish Choose a Greek feta in brine for flavor and creaminess
- Cream cheese: Adds a silkiness to the sauce Use full-fat for richness
- Olive oil: For roasting and flavor Use extra virgin and fruity
- Baby spinach: Quick to wilt and tender Look for vibrant green leaves without bruising
- Red onion: Gently sweet when roasted Try to get a firm heavy onion with no soft spots
- Garlic: Adds savory depth Fresh is ideal for the fullest flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet Use vine-ripened for natural sweetness
- Lemon zest and juice: Brightens everything Choose an organic lemon for best zest
- Dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean touch Try Greek oregano if you can find it
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For a gentle heat Optional but highly recommended
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balance Use flaky salt and freshly ground pepper if possible
- Fresh basil or parsley: To finish Choose bright green herbs for freshness
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit and give it a good 10 minutes to properly heat for even roasting.
- Layer and Season Your Baking Dish:
- Drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil into a large ovenproof baking dish Place the feta block in the center and gently scatter cherry tomatoes around it along with thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic Drizzle everything with the remaining olive oil then sprinkle over dried oregano red pepper flakes salt and pepper
- Roast Until Golden and Bubbling:
- Slide the baking dish onto the middle rack and let it roast for about 25 minutes The feta will soften and become creamy while the tomatoes will pop and create a luscious saucy base Do not rush this step (those golden edges on the feta are flavor gold)
- Boil the Orzo:
- While the feta and veggies roast bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the orzo just until al dente usually about 7 to 8 minutes Scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water before you drain the orzo This starchy water will help bring everything together later
- Mix in Cheese Lemon and Spinach:
- Take the baking dish from the oven and while everything is still steaming hot add the softened cream cheese lemon zest and lemon juice Gently stir and break up the feta letting it melt into the bursting tomatoes and onions Layer in the baby spinach and cooked orzo The heat will wilt the spinach almost instantly
- Combine Adjust and Finish:
- Mix everything together so the sauce clings to the orzo If it looks a bit thick drizzle in reserved pasta water a splash at a time Taste and add more salt pepper or lemon juice as needed Scatter chopped basil or parsley across the top for a hit of color and flavor
Save I always look forward to the way the roasted feta’s saltiness brings out the sweetness in the tomatoes. My kids love helping scatter the spinach leaves in before mixing and somehow the vegetables disappear faster when they help.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to bring back its creamy texture. This is not the best candidate for freezing as the feta can become a bit grainy but it still tastes good
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten free orzo or small pasta if needed Sub goat cheese or ricotta for feta but note these are milder in flavor Try kale or arugula in place of spinach and sun dried tomatoes for a different twist
Serving Suggestions
Top bowls with more fresh herbs or a shower of lemon zest Add cooked shrimp chicken or even canned chickpeas to up the protein Pair with a fresh green salad or wedges of crusty sourdough to mop up every drop
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Baked feta and simple pasta meals are classic to Mediterranean kitchens and highlight how a few humble ingredients become something special with good technique This dish shines with summer cherry tomatoes but works all year using small tomatoes on the vine
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in baby arugula in the spring for a peppery note Use roasted squash cubes instead of tomatoes in the fall Finish with chopped mint for a summer twist
Three Extra Notes
Use leftover feta or cream cheese in sandwiches or salads For extra crunch top with toasted pine nuts before serving This is easily doubled for a crowd just use a larger baking dish
Success Stories
Every time I serve this baked feta orzo at family gatherings it vanishes in record time The melted feta always sparks a conversation about favorite cheeses My neighbor liked it so much she started making it for her own potlucks and says it is always a hit
Freezer Meal Conversion
While this dish is best fresh you can freeze individual portions in tight containers for up to two months To serve thaw overnight in the fridge and gently rewarm with extra splash of liquid Stir well before eating
Save Let this cozy dish warm your weeknight and spark conversation around the table. There is something magical about those golden feta edges and the way the herbs boost every bite.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I keep the orzo creamy?
Reserve pasta water when draining orzo. Add as needed and toss with feta and cream cheese for smooth consistency.
- → Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Kale or arugula work well as substitutes. Add to the dish and let wilt with the hot ingredients before serving.
- → What protein works best as an add-in?
Cooked chicken or shrimp are popular choices. Add after baking with orzo for extra flavor and heartiness.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. To adapt for vegan diets, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- → How can I enhance the Mediterranean flavor?
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and try adding pitted olives or roasted bell peppers for more zest.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Swap regular orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice-shaped gluten-free alternatives if needed.