The Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake is a flavorful twist on a viral recipe that many people love. It combines the creamy goodness of Boursin cheese, fresh lemon, and orzo in one simple baking dish. With a handful of ingredients like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or weekday dinner.

This easy and delicious dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a tasty side. Feel free to pair it with grilled fish for a wholesome option. It’s a flexible recipe, offering a great balance between flavors, so whether you want to eat it all on its own or serve it on the side, it works either way. It’s the perfect combination of fresh, creamy, and comforting—ideal for serving your family or friends.

Lemon & Boursin Orzo at a glance

When you're looking for a meal that brings both comfort and flavor, this Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake is the perfect choice. The creamy and rich texture, paired with the zesty lemon, creates a truly comforting dish. You won’t need to worry about getting everything right—just throw all the ingredients into a large baking dish, cover it, and let the oven do the rest. It's a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require much effort, making it ideal for busy days when you're looking for something easy to prepare.

The cooking time can vary depending on your oven; some may take just 30 minutes, while others could need up to 55 minutes. Don’t panic if it's not fully cooked by the 30-minute mark—just keep an eye on it until the orzo is perfectly done. This is also a great dish to make with kids who are just getting started in the kitchen and want to build confidence in trying new recipes. Trust me, anybody can make this, and I promise it will turn out great every time!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups orzo, uncooked
• 5 ½ cups chicken stock, salted (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version)
• 2 boursin cheeses (150 grams each, total 300 grams)
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 lemons, one sliced into 10 thin pieces and the other juiced
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• Pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions:

• Orzo: If unavailable, substitute with any small pasta or rice.
• Boursin: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute.
• Chicken stock: Substitute with vegetable stock if preferred.
• Fresh parsley: Other herbs such as basil can be used.
• Parmesan cheese: White cheddar or Havarti can work as replacements.

Method:

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Zest both lemons to get about 2 teaspoons of lemon zest.
• Slice one lemon into 10 thin slices and juice the other lemon. Set aside.

Assemble the Dish:

• In a medium to large baking dish, place the two boursin cheeses in the center.
• Evenly spread the uncooked orzo around the cheese.
• Pour in the salted chicken or vegetable stock over the orzo.

Add Flavorings:

• Place the lemon slices on top of the orzo mixture.
• Add minced garlic, and season the dish with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bake:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 40-50 minutes until the orzo is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Check halfway through and stir if needed.

Finish the Dish:

• Once the baking time is finished, remove the lemon slices from the dish.
• Add the lemon zest, juice from the second lemon, chopped parsley, and grated parmesan cheese.

Serve:

• Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
• Serve hot, either on its own or with your favorite halal-friendly protein.

Additional Info About Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake.

Health Benefits:

• Lemon: Rich in Vitamin C, supports immunity, and aids digestion.
• Orzo: Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Boursin: Adds a creamy texture and is a good source of calcium and protein.
• Parsley: High in antioxidants and supports digestion.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock.
• Make sure to adjust the salt based on the saltiness of the stock you are using.
• Adding extra vegetables such as spinach or zucchini can increase the nutrient content.
• The recipe works best with a creamy, flavorful cheese like Boursin or a similar soft cheese.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Vitamin C: 10% of daily value

Equipments:

• Medium-large baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Zester or fine grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Servings Suggestions

The Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake pairs beautifully with a creamy, indulgent dish like steak fettuccine. The richness of the fettuccine, with its tender slices of steak and velvety sauce, complements the light and zesty flavors of the orzo bake, creating a harmony of textures and tastes. For a more playful touch, serve it alongside a smoky queso dip, perfect for adding a bit of savory depth to the meal.

The dip's rich, melted cheese and hint of smoke provide a satisfying contrast to the freshness of the lemon, making each bite feel balanced and complete. Together, these dishes offer a cozy, yet sophisticated dining experience, perfect for any occasion.

Storing & Reheating

When you have leftovers from your Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake, it’s important to store them properly. Place the leftovers in an airtight container to help preserve the freshness, and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, the dish stays fresh and ready to enjoy later. It’s also great for meal prep, as you can have something delicious ready for the next few days. Make sure to refrigerate your dish promptly to maintain its best quality during food storage.

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of easy options. You can use the microwave and heat it for 30-45 seconds until it's warm. Alternatively, if you prefer a stovetop method, you can place the dish in a small pan with a splash of olive oil, and cook it on the stove for about 4-5 minutes until it's heated throughout. The combination of lemon, Boursin, and orzo still tastes great, even after reheating, making it a simple and quick meal to enjoy again.

One thing to note, though, is that this recipe doesn’t do well with freezing. The cheese doesn’t hold up when frozen, affecting the food texture, so it’s not recommended to freeze this dish. Instead, enjoy it fresh or within the next few days while it’s still in its best state.

What if the orzo is not cooked after 30 minutes?

When cooking the delicious Lemon and Boursin Orzo Bake, it’s normal to wonder if the orzo will be fully cooked after 30 minutes. Don’t worry if it’s not ready yet! Every oven works differently, and sometimes it can take a little longer. I’ve found that it may even take up to 50 or 55 minutes for the orzo to reach the perfect texture. The key is to keep an eye on it, and don’t rush—just keep going until it’s fully cooked. It’s important to be patient, as the orzo absorbs all those wonderful flavors during this process, and it will be worth the wait in the end!

Can I substitute the parmesan for another cheese?

If you're making a Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake and realize you're out of parmesan, don't worry! You can easily swap it for other delicious cheeses. A smooth and mild white cheddar is an excellent option that melts beautifully into the orzo, creating a creamy texture that complements the tangy lemon flavor. Another great substitute is Havarti, known for its buttery softness, which adds a rich, indulgent touch to the dish. These cheeses work wonders in this cozy and comforting bake, blending perfectly with the creamy Boursin and the tender orzo.

What protein can I add to this recipe?

When making the Lemon & Boursin Orzo Bake, you have a few delicious protein options to take it to the next level. Whether you're cooking for a family meal or just treating yourself, it's easy to adjust this recipe to your preferences. You can add tender chicken, lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection, which blends wonderfully with the creamy Boursin and bright lemon flavors. If you prefer a plant-based option, tofu is a fantastic choice, as it absorbs the citrusy taste and adds a soft, satisfying texture. Each protein option brings a unique element to the dish, but they all work beautifully to make the meal more hearty. Feel free to explore these options and enjoy the versatility this recipe offers.