pizza-orzo

Easy Recipes

Pizza Orzo

Here, we’re swapping in one beloved carb for another: the classic crust for an unconventional option, orzo. Perfect for the times that you're craving two things and can’t decide which to prepare, this pizza orzo combines everything you love about pizza and pasta into a satisfying and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 8 oz. baby bella or white mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 12 oz. orzo (2 c.)
  • 1 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 (28-oz.) can whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 c. fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, plus whole leaves for serving
  • 3 c. (12 oz.) shredded mozzarella
  • 1/3 c. pepperoni slices

Directions

  1. Step 1In a large, high-sided, ovenproof skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3 minutes. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add orzo and tomato paste and cook, stirring, until incorporated, about 1 minute.
  2. Step 2Stir in tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper, then add 3 cups water; season with salt and black pepper. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil while breaking up tomatoes with the back of a wooden spoon into bite-sized pieces. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until liquid is mostly absorbed and orzo is tender, 12 to 14 minutes.
  3. Step 3Meanwhile, place a rack in upper third of oven; heat broiler. Remove skillet from heat and stir in chopped basil; season with salt and black pepper. Top orzo mixture with mozzarella, then pepperoni.
  4. Step 4Broil pizza until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Top with basil leaves.