smoky orzo casserole
My husband created this dish. He wanted something flavorful and easy to fix. This is such a versatile dish, it is a satisfying hearty dish that can be used as an appetizer or dinner. A one-dish casserole is easy enough for your husband to make and satisfying enough for everyone to love. My husband and father love this dish because of the smoky flavor it gives the orzo. In my husband's words, "It's just scrumptious!" Try other flavors of Lil Smokies in this. You can add diced green pepper and mushrooms if you want more veggies.
Blue Ribbon Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, have this smoky orzo casserole recipe handy for a busy weeknight. It's simple and sure to please everyone. Super cheesy, Lil smokies add heartiness and a smoky flavor to the casserole. Crushed butter crackers give it a nice crunch. We loved that this is a smaller casserole so a good dinner option for a smaller family.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese
- 1/2 can Rotel, chili fixins-style
- 1/2 package Lil' smokies, beef
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 10 - Ritz crackers, crushed
How To Make smoky orzo casserole
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Step 1Cook 1 1/2 cups of orzo in 2 cups of boiling salted water until done; about 9 minutes. Drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. -
Step 2Cut Velveeta cheese into small bite-size cubes and put in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 3 minutes until melted; mix well.
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Step 3Add 1/2 can of the Rotel along with diced onions Add salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder.
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Step 4Add pasta to the cheese mixture.
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Step 5Cut Lil' smokies into thirds. Mix into cheese sauce.
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Step 6Add them to the pasta mixture.
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Step 7Spread the pasta mixture into a greased 8x8 baking dish.
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Step 8Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
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Step 9Bake at 350 degrees for 20 - 30 minutes. Serve while hot.
- Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!
