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Buffalo Cauliflower Cheesy Orzo Bake Recipe

Buffalo Cauliflower Cheesy Orzo Bake

Are you ready to indulge in a dish that marries the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy goodness of cheese and the comforting texture of orzo? This dish is perfect for anyone craving a hearty, vegetarian meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Buffalo Cauliflower Cheesy Orzo Bake
  • 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Greased Baking Dish
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
  3. Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cauliflower. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until each floret is evenly coated.
  4. Step 4: Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the florets are tender and have a slight golden color.
  5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roasted cauliflower, buffalo sauce, vegetable broth, and softened cream cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
  6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and make sure the ingredients are well distributed. Top with shredded cheese.
  7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Step 8: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

This dish reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for lunch the next day. Feel free to customize it with additional veggies or different types of cheese.