This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta recipe is a one-pot recipe for tender orzo tossed in a light and cheesy cream sauce. It’s simple to make and comes together in a total of 20 minutes!

Love orzo? Try this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, this Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo recipe or one of The 10 Best Orzo Recipes!

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta recipe is a recipe you don’t want to miss!

Anything that has garlic and parmesan in it is bound to be good, right? Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew, Garlic Parmesan Scalloped Potatoes, Pesto Parmesan Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Potatoes…Yeah. It’s a pretty killer combo.

Add pasta to the mix, especially orzo pasta, and you’ve pretty much reached the epitome of good food.

It’s a decadent side dish or vegetarian entree that’s fancy enough to be served for a dinner party but also quick and easy enough that you can whip it up for a simple weeknight dinner.

Just one pot, a few simple ingredients, 20 minutes, and it’s ready to go!

If you love simple pasta recipes, check out this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta and this Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta, too! If you’re an orzo lover, or try this One Pan Tuscan Orzo with Chicken next.

What is orzo pasta?

Orzo is a small, oval-shaped pasta that resembles grains of rice. It can be cooked either like a pasta (boiled and then drained) or it can be cooked in the same way rice would be cooked (simmered in liquid until it’s fully absorbed.)

This creamy orzo pasta recipe utilizes the second cooking method. The orzo is simmered in broth until the liquid is absorbed, then cream and cheese are incorporated to create a light cream sauce. This method results in a creamy consistency very similar to risotto as the starch from the pasta mixes with the liquid to create a thicker, creamier base for the sauce.

Garlic Parmesan Orzo Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Broth: I usually use low sodium chicken broth. If you use regular chicken broth, you may want to adjust the amount of salt you add so it’s not too salty.
• Dry Orzo Pasta: you can find orzo pasta at most grocery stores!
• Garlic: use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Garlic powder just isn’t the same!
• Salt and Black Pepper: thanks to the broth, garlic, and cheese, you don’t need much when it comes to seasonings. A simple duo of salt and black pepper is all you need!
• Cream: any kind will work! Use heavy cream for a richer flavor. Light cream will be a bit thinner but will still be delicious.
• Parmesan Cheese: freshly grated parmesan is the way to go. Pre-shredded cheeses contain an anti-caking agent which can cause a grainy texture.
• Parsley: I love to use a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add freshness and add a pop of color.

How to make this easy Orzo Pasta recipe

This orzo recipe is a quick and easy recipe that’s made in just one pot for super easy cleanup! Scroll down to the recipe card for more detailed instructions.

1. Cook the pasta: In a skillet, combine broth, pasta, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed. Make sure to stir often!
2. Finish and serve: Mix in cream, parmesan, and parsley then serve and enjoy!

Orzo Pasta FAQs

Is orzo pasta or rice?

While orzo is often mistaken for rice because of its small rice-like shape, it is in fact a pasta!

How is orzo different than pasta?

Orzo is simply a specific shape of pasta, although it differs from other cuts of pasta in the way that it is prepared.

Orzo can be cooked like pasta or it can be toasted in a dry pan before adding liquid to cook it. It can also be cooked using a similar method to risotto.

Can you use another pasta?

Yes! You can use any smaller pasta shape in this recipe and it should yield similar results. You can also substitute the orzo out for Arborio rice to get a similar consistency. Keep in mind the cook time will change, so make sure you cook until all of the liquid is absorbed, adding more liquid if necessary to cook the pasta.

Is orzo pasta healthier than rice?

The term “healthy” is relative these days, and what’s healthy for one person may not work for another. Orzo is a pasta and rice is a grain, so they bring different things to the table.

In a 140 gram serving, orzo has 316 calories and roughly 11 grams of protein.

In a 158 gram serving, long grain white rice has 205 calories but only 4 grams of protein.

How long will cooked orzo keep?

Cooked garlic parmesan orzo pasta will last in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to thin and moisten and warm on the stove or in the microwave until fully warmed.

Can orzo recipes be frozen?

Yes! You can freeze this orzo pasta by packing it in an airtight container then storing it in the freezer for 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen then warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of liquid to moisten.

Variations on this orzo recipe:

• Add veggies. You can mix in any cooked veggies you like to give this pasta dinner a boost of nutrition. Try it with peas, tomatoes, asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, you name it.
• Make it meaty. Fill out the meal by mixing in cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon.
• Spice it up. If you like your pasta with a kick of heat, try adding in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Brighten it up. Add another layer of flavor with a splash of lemon juice.

Orzo Pasta Serving suggestions

This garlic parmesan orzo pasta makes a delicious vegetarian entree with a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread.

It also makes the perfect side dish next to your favorite protein. Serve it with Slow Cooker Chicken Breast, baked tuscan chicken, or Instant Pot Whole Chicken!

More pasta recipes you’ll love

For more pasta inspiration, check out more of my easy pasta recipes. Here are a few of my favorites!

• Crockpot Lasagna
• Pesto Spinach Alfredo
• Gnocchi with Sausage, Spinach, and Tomatoes

Dinner

Chicken Pesto Pasta

Dinner

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Dinner

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Casseroles

Rigatoni Pasta Bake

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Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta is a one-pot recipe for tender orzo tossed in a light and cheesy cream sauce. It's simple to make and comes together in a total of 20 minutes!

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American, canadian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 279cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta (about 278 grams)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅓ cup cream (any kind — heavy cream will give richer flavor, light cream will be a bit thinner)
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• Combine broth, pasta, garlic, salt and pepper in a medium skillet.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer, stirring often (you can cover or leave uncovered). Cook until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is cooked to your preference. (If you want to cook the pasta further but the liquid is gone, just add a splash more broth).
• Stir in cream, Parmesan and parsley. Serve.

Video

Notes

Storage:

Cooked garlic parmesan orzo pasta will last in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to thin and moisten and warm on the stove or in the microwave until fully warmed.

You can also freeze this orzo pasta by packing it in an airtight container then storing it in the freezer for 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen then warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of liquid to moisten.

Nutrition

Serving: 205grams | Calories: 279cal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 445mg | Potassium: 279mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 243IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta recipe appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is a savory one-pot meal that’s better than the original boxed version! Made with tender elbow pasta, savory ground beef, cheese, tomato sauce, and veggies, it’s ready in 30 minutes or less and impossible to resist!

Cozy up with more comfort food recipes like Three Cheese Gnocchi Bake, One Pot BBQ Chicken and Bacon Pasta and Sausage Tortellini Soup.

Confession time: I can’t honestly remember the last time I purchased or prepared a box of Hamburger Helper.

It’s not that I never have—like most moms, I’m familiar with the beloved boxed pasta (it’s one of my childhood favorites!). But somewhere along the way, I discovered that it’s actually quite easy to make homemade hamburger helper.

My recipe for homemade Hamburger Helper is the only one you need for a number of reasons: it comes together in one pot, with real ingredients, in roughly the same amount of time. Since then, I haven’t looked back!

Why we love it:

• Healthier than store-bought: This homemade version is a one-pot meal made with healthy whole wheat pasta for added fiber, and wholesome veggies like red pepper and spinach.
• Kid-friendly: Everything all cooks down together in the cheesy sauce (hello, comfort food!), so picky eaters won’t even notice (it’s a family favorite here!).
• One pot: Those two magic words means that dinner will be easy to make and easy to clean up!
• Simple ingredients: This is a great clean-out-your-fridge recipe! It uses simple ingredients that you probably already have laying around.

Homemade Hamburger Helper ingredients:

• Lean Ground Beef: Since this is a one pot meal, I usually use lean ground beef. That helps keep the pasta from being greasy.
• Onion: Almost any beef dish is better with onion! You can dice up fresh onion, or if you’re short on time, sprinkle in about a tablespoon of onion powder.
• Red Pepper: Dice up a medium bell pepper. We use red, but any color is fine!
• Red Pepper Flakes: To add a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can put more in, if you want it to be spicier.
• Garlic or Garlic Powder: Again, you can use fresh minced garlic, or go with garlic powder if you prefer. Use about ⅓ teaspoon for each clove of garlic.
• Salt and Pepper: I prefer to use red pepper flakes as opposed to black pepper, but you can use both if you prefer.
• Italian Seasoning: Store-bought Italian seasoning blend adds lots of flavor to the dish!
• Spinach: For frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. For fresh spinach, just chop it finely. You can omit if you want but I promise no one will know it’s there!
• Beef Broth: The dish will be cooked in a mixture of broth and milk; I use beef broth, but vegetable broth and chicken broth would both work, as well.
• Milk: any kind of dairy or non-dairy milk will work. Higher fat dairy will yield a richer flavor.
• Pasta: Our favorite pasta for this recipe is elbow pasta, but basically any small shape would be good. Penne, farfalle (bowties), and fusilli are all good hamburger-helper-style shapes — just keep in mind the cook time may vary.
• Tomato Sauce: You can use plain tomato sauce, strained tomatoes, or pasta sauce, whatever you have.
• Cheese: To make this a cheesy, comforting meal, you’ll need plenty of shredded cheese! Try mozzarella, colby, cheddar, or any other melting cheese that you like. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired

How to make Hamburger Helper

Let’s take a quick look at how to make homemade hamburger helper! Find the detailed recipe down in the recipe card.

• Cook the ground beef, red bell peppers and onions.
• Mix in the seasonings, garlic and spinach.

• Pour in the milk, broth, noodles and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cook for 12-15 minutes.
• Stir in the cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

• Change the veggies. Feel free to swap out the veggies for others your family enjoys, like mushrooms, shredded carrots, zucchini, or anything else you have taking up space in the fridge. Also, shredded vegetables cooked down in the ground beef are a great way to get more vegetables into your diet.
• Use your preferred pasta. I use high fiber whole wheat pasta, but really any variety of wheat pasta works fine. If you are using gluten-free or alternative pastas, you may want to reduce the amount of liquid, or add more, depending on the type of pasta.
• Make it dairy-free. Swap dairy-free milk and dairy-free cheese for the whole milk and shredded cheese. Or simply make the recipe with no milk, substituting additional broth, and leave out the cheese altogether!
• Make it vegetarian. Swap out the beef broth for vegetable broth, and vegetarian crumbles, chickpeas, or simply extra veggies instead of the meat.
• Use another meat. Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground sausage all work well.
• Make it creamy. Stir in some sour cream or plain yogurt for an extra creamy pasta.
• Spice it up! Splash in some hot sauce or sriracha.

How to Store Homemade Hamburger Helper

Leftover Hamburger Helper will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Add a splash of milk, water or broth and reheat for 30 seconds at a time in the microwave, stirring each time it stops, until warmed all the way through.

Can I freeze hamburger helper?

Yes! To freeze homemade hamburger helper, spread the cooked pasta into a foil or freezer-safe baking dish, and cover with a layer of plastic wrap and then a lid or a layer of tin foil. The plastic wrap helps prevent freezer burn (thanks Grandma, for that trick!).

To reheat frozen hamburger helper, uncover the dish, remove the layer of plastic wrap, and then replace the layer of foil. Bake the dish at 350°F for about one hour, removing the foil at about the 40 minute mark, to allow the cheese to brown somewhat.

Freezing Note: If you’re planning to freeze and reheat pasta, you can slightly undercook the pasta before freezing. That way, when you reheat it, it won’t turn out mushy.

Reheating Note: if you’re moving a glass dish from the freezer to the oven, it’s a good idea to let the dish sit out at room temperature for a couple hours beforehand to warm slightly. You may not have to cook it as long.

Serving suggestions:

You can serve this pasta all on its own! It truly is a meal all in one pot! However, if you’d like to add a few side dishes, these are some great, easy options:

• Broccoli Salad: If you don’t think you like broccoli, try this recipe—I promise it will change your mind! Classic Broccoli Salad is sweet, tangy, crunchy, and fresh, with bacon and cheddar for extra yumminess.
• Creamed Corn: Sweet, Homemade Creamed Corn is a side dish that my kids devour! It’s a fresh, crisp-tender veggie option that’s always a welcome addition to the meal.
• Glazed Carrots: My simple Honey Orange Glazed Carrots are another kid-friendly side dish, made from scratch and lightly sweet.

More one pot pasta recipes!

• Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo recipe — a fabulous side or meatless main dish.
• Three Cheese Gnocchi Bake — the cheesier, the better!
• Creamy Gemelli Pasta recipe — simple and satisfying.
• Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage — sausage adds so much flavor!
• Cajun Chicken Pasta — just the right amount of kick!

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Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe – easy one pot pasta!

This Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper is a savory, one-pot meal that's better than the original! Made with tender elbow pasta, savory ground beef, cheese, tomato sauce, and veggies, it's ready in 30 minutes or less!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 474cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• ½ medium onion diced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, if you like it spicy!)
• ¼ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (or 1 cup fresh, chopped fine) optional
• 1 ¾ cup milk
• 1 ½ cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 ¾ cups dry uncooked macaroni (1 375g box)
• 1 ½ cups tomato or pasta sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• To a large pot add beef, onion, and peppers and cook until vegetables are softened. pepper flakes, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning and spinach. Cook over medium high heat until beef is browned.
• Add garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, mustard red pepper flakes, and spinach. Cook 1-2 minutes to wake up the flavors.
• Add in milk, broth, macaroni and tomato sauce and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook 12-15 minutes, stirring often.
• Stir in 1 cup of cheese. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

**NOTE: Nutrition information is estimated and will vary depending on exact serving size, types and brands of products used.

Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: feel free to swap the beef for ground chicken, pork or turkey. I use lean ground beef so there is not much fat to drain, but if you are using regular ground beef you may want to drain the fat after browning.
• Vegetables: you can swap the peppers and spinach for other vegetables you have hanging around: finely chopped mushrooms, shredded carrots or zucchini, finely chopped kale — once it all cooks down the flavor melds together and you won’t really notice!
• Broth: I use low sodium beef broth so I can control the salt. If you have regular broth you may want to reduce the added salt and adjust as needed. Vegetable and chicken broth may also be substituted.
• Milk: I use low fat milk, but any will do here! Non-dairy milk works just as well.
• Macaroni: any short pasta will work here, but they may require different cook times or amounts of liquid. If you notice the liquid is mostly absorbed but the pasta is not cooked, just add a splash here and there and continue cooking until the pasta is al dente.

 

Nutrition

Serving: 347grams | Calories: 474cal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 1166mg | Potassium: 836mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2073IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 293mg | Iron: 5mg

More one pot pastas you’ll love!

• Healthy One Pot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
• One Pot Baked Ziti
• One Pot Chicken Chow Mein

The post BEST Hamburger Helper Recipe appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

This Easy Lasagna recipe is made with oven ready lasagna noodles, jarred tomato sauce and a couple special ingredients that bring LOADS of flavor! Includes step by step recipe video so you can make this simple lasagna at home.

Do you love lasagna as much as we do? Try these Lasagna Roll Ups, this Crockpot Lasagna Soup or this Chocolate Lasagna for dessert!

Sharing this Easy Lasagna recipe here on The Recipe Rebel, I’ll admit, is mostly for me.

That’s right.

I occasionally have purely selfish motives here (and my motives are almost entirely selfish when cheesy pasta is involved ).

The thing is, I realized one day that lasagna is one of those easy dinner ideas I hadn’t yet mastered, because I never use a recipe.

So I have made some amazing lasagna, and I have made some dry lasagnas, and I have made some soupy lasagnas, and I struggled to get consistent results.

I figured the only thing to do was to come up with The Perfect Easy Lasagna Recipe to share here, and that would force me to actually get in my kitchen and figure out the best ratios of sauce to pasta to cheese and then we would all be making amazing lasagnas forevermore.

Just don’t forget the Cheesy Garlic Bread!

What is authentic lasagna?

All I have to say to this is: who’s to say?

Even in Italy, there are so many variations of a classic lasagna recipe depending on where you live, that I don’t know if we can really claim there’s one right way.

Some Lasagnas have a layer of ricotta, cheese and egg mixture layered with meat sauce.

Some Lasagna recipes have cottage cheese (I feel like this is a Canadian prairies thing, but I could be wrong).

Some Lasagna recipes have a layer of bechamel sauce rather than ricotta or cottage cheese.

So this is my interpretation of the best lasagna recipe, and I think it’s pretty delicious! I’d love to hear which way you prefer it in the comments.

Easy Lasagna Ingredients:

• Ground Beef: I choose to use lean ground beef so there is little fat to drain. If you are using regular ground beef, you may want to drain the fat before continuing. Feel free to swap this out with ground turkey, chicken or pork.
• Italian Sausage: Italian sausage is a must here (in my opinion!) because it adds so much flavor without having to add a bunch of different spices. If you swap it out, you’ll want to make sure to compensate by adding additional seasonings.
• Onion: adds depth of flavor that can’t be missed!
• Garlic: opt for freshly minced garlic for the best flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch.
• Salt and Italian Seasoning: because the sausage adds so much flavor, I keep the rest of our seasonings pretty basic. If you like extra kick, you can add a ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes as well.
• Tomato Pasta Sauce: a simple marinara sauce or similar tomato sauce works great here! Keep in mind the more flavor your sauce has, the more it will add to the lasagna.
• Water: a little bit of water added to our sauce ensures that our lasagna doesn’t get dry as our noodles cook.
• Ricotta cheese: I use Ricotta cheese in this lasagna — you don’t notice the texture and it adds a deliciously mild, creamy flavor.
• Frozen Spinach: I prefer to use frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, because it is already shrunk down considerably and it’s easy to mix into the filling. You can substitute with fresh, finely chopped spinach if you prefer.
• Cream: keeps our Ricotta filling from becoming dry.
• Egg: binds our Ricotta filling to keep it in place.
• Parmesan cheese: adds the best salty, cheesy flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: a must have! In our cheese filling and a solid layer on top.
• Oven Ready Lasagna Noodles: I love using oven ready lasagna noodles because it takes out one step in an admittedly long process. They make this Easy Lasagna recipe much more convenient! You can use regular lasagna noodles, pre-cooked to al dente, and omit the water in the sauce.

How to make Lasagna:

Here is a quick overview of the recipe! Scroll down to the recipe card for all the details you need.

1. Brown your meat and onion: in this recipe I like to use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage because it adds a ton of flavor without us really having to put in any extra work!
2. Add your spices: adding your spices and garlic before your liquid really brings the flavor to life.

3. Add the tomato sauce and simmer your sauce until the flavors meld together.
4. Make the ricotta cheese mixture: Stir together the ricotta, seasonings, cheese and egg to hold it all together.

5. Layer it up: Start with a little meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish to ensure your noodles don’t stick to the bottom, then top with noodles, ricotta, and meat sauce and then repeat. Dump allllll of that extra mozzarella on the top for good measure!
6. Cover and bake: Covering the lasagna with aluminum foil to bake ensures that the moisture stays inside and cooks the noodles. We will uncover once we add the cheese and let it sit at room temperature for some time before slicing to help it set well.

Variations on this Easy Lasagna Recipe:

And because there are about 1 million different ways to make lasagna, here are a few tips to get it just the way you like:

• You can swap the ricotta for cottage cheese and change nothing else at all. See how easy that was! Simply mix it up with the cheese just like you would ricotta.
• Can you make lasagna without ricotta or cottage cheese? Absolutely! You can actually skip it altogether or use a Bechamel Sauce instead! (Just don’t tell anyone)
• Want to add extra veggies? Go for it! I often do, but I wanted to keep this lasagna recipe as simple as possible to start. Finely chopped carrots, celery, mushrooms, kale or spinach would be great, and you can add them when you’re cooking the meat.
• Don’t have an Italian sausage? You can use all ground beef or sub for ground turkey or pork, but you will want to increase the seasonings somewhat.

What’s the correct layering for lasagna?

To prepare your pan for your lasagna layers, it’s always a good idea to spray with non stick spray and then spread a bit of the red sauce in the bottom to keep the oven ready noodles moist and prevent them from sticking. From there, this is the best way to layer your lasagna:

1. Noodles
2. Ricotta cheese mixture
3. Red sauce
4. Repeat until all layers are done, then add your mozzarella on top!

Make ahead Lasagna method:

Lasagna is the perfect meal prep or make ahead meal! Just follow these steps:

1. Prepare your lasagna up to the point of baking, leaving the mozzarella cheese off for now.
2. Cool for 30-60 minutes at room temperature, then cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate up to 2 days.
3. Continue with the baking instructions, adding a splash of water around the edges if the noodles appear to have soaked up a lot of the sauce.

How to freeze lasagna:

One of the best things about a good homemade lasagna is how easy it is to make ahead, and it still tastes just as amazing when you bake it later!

You can wrap and refrigerate the lasagna for 3-4 days before baking, or you can freeze it to enjoy it even later.

To freeze lasagna before baking, you can add the cheese before freezing or just before baking — I prefer to add it during the last ten minutes so it doesn’t get stuck to my foil!

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use an airtight, freezer safe lid. Freeze up to 3 months before baking.

To bake, let thaw at room temperature throughout the day – 8 hours – or overnight in the refrigerator. Bake for 1-1.5 hours until heated through. Top with cheese and bake until melted.

What to serve with this Easy Lasagna Recipe:

Lasagna is a favorite here, and we love to serve it with a side of Garlic Bread, a basket of Homemade Breadsticks or some Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe and Garlic Butter.

Want something green to serve with it? Try these Roasted Green Beans, Broccoli Casserole or Easy Broccoli Salad!

More baked pasta recipes you’ll love!

• Try this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake if you love a creamy white sauce.
• Try this Rigatoni Pasta Bake if you love lasagna flavors but don’t feel like layering!
• Go for this Baked Mostaccioli Pasta if you love tomato-based pastas.
• Choose this Cheese Cannelloni Recipe if you want to impress your family!

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Easy Lasagna

This Easy Lasagna recipe is made with oven ready lasagna noodles, jarred tomato sauce and a couple special ingredients that bring LOADS of flavor! Includes step by step recipe video so you can make this simple lasagna at home.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 55 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Calories 493cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb Italian sausage loose packed or casings removed (5 sausages)
• 1 onion finely diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3.5 cups jarred tomato pasta sauce about 1.5 jars
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cups Ricotta cheese 450g
• 1/2 cup frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry (100g)
• 1/4 cup cream
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese divided
• 12 oven ready lasagna noodles

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• In a large pan, cook ground beef, Italian sausage and onion until browned, stirring often. If there is a lot of liquid in the pan, drain it before continuing.
• Stir in garlic, salt and Italian seasoning and cook 1 minute.
• Stir in pasta sauce and water. Remove from heat to cool slightly. (This can also be made in advance and refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen up to 3 months)
• In a medium bowl, stir together Ricotta, spinach, cream, egg and Parmesan and 1 cup of Mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (if baking right away) and lightly grease a deep 9×13" pan.
• Spread just enough meat sauce in the bottom of the pan to create a thin layer.
• Top with 3 lasagna noodles. Spread the noodles with ⅓ of the Ricotta mixture, and top that with ¼ of the meat sauce.
• Repeat layers 3 times, and on the last layer of noodles spread only the remaining meat sauce.
• Lightly grease a piece of tin foil or oven safe lid and place over top of the lasagna. Bake for 40-45 minutes until noodles are tender (this can take up to 60 minutes, depending on your brand of pasta) — it will still be juicy at this point and that's okay.
• Remove the foil and sprinkle with remaining 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Bake for 10 minutes until melted and broil for 2 minutes if desired to brown the cheese.
• Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes — there should not be any liquid remaining on the edges after this rest. Slice and serve.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 493cal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 1252mg | Potassium: 636mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1489IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 313mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Easy Lasagna Recipe appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

Pasta Fagioli is an Italian soup that always satisfies! It’s a pasta and bean soup that’s bursting with savory flavor from pancetta, garlic, tomato paste, parmesan and more. You can call it pasta fazool if you want – I just call it delicious!

Stir up more of the best soup recipes like White Bean Soup with Bacon, Italian Meatball Soup and Sausage Orzo Soup.

I’m such a sucker for a good bowl of Pasta e Fagioli. It’s smoky, cheesy, hearty… It’s really got so much to offer in every spoonful!

While there is a pretty lengthy list of ingredients that go into this classic Italian soup, have no fear. It’s still incredibly easy to make and everything listed is inexpensive.

Plus, you can change things up in this soup as you see fit! This versatile soup varies all over Italy as well as New York depending on where you buy it, so you can easily add or take away ingredients as needed.

Why we love it:

• One pot: This pasta fagioli recipe is made in just one pot! That means it’s easy to make and clean up is a breeze.
• Hearty: With bacon (or pancetta), white beans and pasta, this soup is sure to fill you up.
• Veggies: Pasta fazool might just be the recipe you need to sneak some veggies into your little one’s tummy! Carrots, celery, tomatoes and spinach create a great medley of fresh flavors and offer some nutrients to the soup.

Pasta Fagioli Ingredients:

• Vegetables – You’ll need fresh spinach, sliced carrots, sliced celery and a can of diced tomatoes for this pasta e fagioli recipe. Feel free to change these up a little as needed!
• Beans – White kidney beans are my bean of choice. Be sure to thoroughly drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup.
• Pancetta – is traditionally used but bacon is a great swap too! We often use bacon because it’s less expensive and easily available.
• Chicken Broth – Use low-sodium broth if possible! There’s already salty meat in the mix, and you can always sprinkle in as much salt at the end if you’d like.
• Garlic – Measure with your heart, garlic lovers!
• Parmesan – You’ll want to use a block of parmesan for this recipe. Freshly grated parm is always preferred, plus you get to use that rind for even more flavor.
• Tomato Paste – This does a fantastic job at creating the best rich tomato flavor.
• Pasta – Use a small pasta like ditalini.
• Salt and Pepper – Adjust to taste!
• Italian Seasoning – This really solidifies that classic herbaceous Italian flavor we all know and love.

How to make Pasta Fagioli

Check out how quick and easy it is to make pasta fazool! Scroll to the bottom of this page for more detail information.

• Cook the pancetta or bacon (keep the fat! We’ll use that to cook our vegetables).
• Stir in the onions, carrots and celery.

• Stir in the seasonings, garlic and tomato paste.
• Pour in the broth. Then, add the diced tomatoes, beans, bay leaf and parmesan rind. Bring to a simmer before reducing the heat, covering, and cooking for 10 minutes.

• Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente.
• Finish it off with spinach and freshly grated parmesan.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use your favorite pasta. Ditalini is the most common pasta to use in pasta fazool. However, you can really use any small pasta you prefer. Orzo would work perfectly as well!
• Swap the greens. Not a spinach fan? Replace it with chopped kale.
• Use the white beans of your choice. Cannellini beans or great northern beans both work well. Just make sure that no matter what, they’re drained and rinsed well.
• Add some spice. If you’d like to heat things up a bit, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.

How to Store Pasta Fagioli

Pasta e fagioli will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat for 30 seconds at a time in the microwave, stirring each time it stops, until warmed all the way through.

If you prefer your pasta perfectly al dente, you may want to cook it separately in a pot of boiling, salted water and just add some to every bowl when serving. This way it does not become bloated when it is stored.

Can I freeze pasta fagioli?

Yes! Let the soup fully cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a zip-top storage bag. Lay it flat on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour so it’s nice and flat. This makes it easier to store in your freezer! Date, label, and keep frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to slowly thaw in the fridge prior to reheating.

Again, for perfectly al dente pasta, cook it separately and do not freeze it with the soup.

What to serve with Pasta e Fagioli:

Bread with soup is a must have over here! We love to serve this Pasta Fagioli with Homemade Breadsticks, No Knead Artisan Bread, or Mom’s Homemade Buns slathered in Garlic Butter (speaking of Garlic Butter, this Garlic Bread is another solid option!).

More Soup Recipes To Try…

Cozy up with more of my favorite filling soups that require no side dishes! Here are just a few recipes that my family can’t get enough of:

• Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana — with the perfect amount of spice!
• Sausage Tortellini Soup — soup that eats like a meal.
• Italian Wedding Soup — those homemade meatballs are everything!
• Chicken Wild Rice Soup — creamy and satisfying.

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EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Pasta Fagioli is an Italian soup that always satisfies! It's a pasta and bean soup that's bursting with savory flavor from pancetta, garlic, tomato paste, parmesan and more. You can call it pasta fazool if you want – I just call it delicious!

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American, Italian

Diet Low Calorie

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 470cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oilive oil
• 100 grams pancetta, chopped (or about 4 slices thick cut bacon)
• 3 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (finely diced)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (vegetable for vegetarian)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz or 398 ml) or crushed
• 2 cans white kidney beans (19 oz or 540 ml) drained and rinsed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 parm rind
• 1 cup ditalini or other small pasta (uncooked) about 130 grams
• 2 cups freshly chopped spinach or kale
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• In a large dutch oven or soup pot, heat oil over medium-high heat and add chopped bacon or pancetta. Cook until lightly browned.
• Add carrots, celery and onion and cook until translucent.
• Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper and cook 1-2 minutes.
• Add broth, diced tomatoes, beans, bay leaf and Parmesan rind. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and cover. Cook for 10 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender.
• Stir in uncooked pasta, cover and cook until al dente.
• Just before serving, stir in spinach and Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Pancetta or Bacon: either works well, and you can omit for a meatless version of this soup.
• Vegetables: There are lots and lots of variations of Pasta e Fagioli, which means that you can make your own rules and no one can tell you it’s wrong! Feel free to add in extra vegetables that you need to get out of the fridge, or ones your guests enjoy. 
• Broth: I always start with low sodium or no salt added broth so that I can control how salty the soup is in the end.
• Pasta: we love ditalini in soup, but any small pasta shape will do. If you are going to be serving it later, you may want to cook the pasta to al dente in a pot of boiling water and just add when serving. This way it won’t get mushy if it sits in the fridge too long.
• Tomatoes: use diced or crushed, or you can swap this for tomato sauce for a thicker soup.
• Beans: I prefer white beans but any kind of beans, even black or red kidney beans will work just as well in here.

 

Nutrition

Serving: 457grams | Calories: 470cal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 556mg | Potassium: 1233mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 6275IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 5mg

The post Pasta Fagioli (Pasta Fazool) appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is cheesy, creamy, and so flavorful! Penne pasta is baked in the best homemade sauce and made hearty with bites of chicken spread throughout. Perfect for those crazy weeknights when you need something comforting and easy!

Enjoy more of my favorite pasta recipes like Three Cheese Gnocchi Bake, Creamy Gemelli Pasta and Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage.

As the weather drops, it’s time to whip out all of our favorite comfort food recipes! This creamy chicken pasta bake is stick-to-your-ribs comforting in the very best way.

It checks all the right boxes – creamy, cheesy, chicken-y, and SO easy. There’s a whole lot to love about this Tuscan chicken pasta!

Why we love it:

• Easy-Peasy – Yes! This recipe really simplifies the process of making homemade pasta sauce. Once you’ve got your sauce, noodles and chicken ready, you just toss it all together and let the oven do the rest of the work for you.
• Cheesy and Creamy – Ingredients like parmesan, mozzarella and heavy cream come together to create the best cheesy flavor and creamy consistency.
• Sneaky Spinach – If you have a picky eater seated at the table, have no fear. The spinach in this pasta bake recipe is so sneaky, they might not even notice it in there!
• It’s make-ahead-able! This recipe can be prepped right up to the point of baking, then refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to bake it. More on this below 😉

Ingredients Needed for Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

• Pasta: It’s best to use a short pasta like penne, fusili or something similar so it really grips the sauce.
• Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola, olive or avocado.
• Chicken: As long as it’s boneless and skinless, it’ll work! Feel free to use either breast or thigh meat.
• Salt and Pepper: Just a few shakes of each, to taste.
• Butter: You can use salted or unsalted depending on what you prefer.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: This is what really creates that Tuscan flair! Be sure to thoroughly drain them before chopping.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred over pre-minced.
• Seasonings: You’ll need a simple medley of Italian seasoning, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth creates great flavor without adding any more salt.
• Heavy Cream: To maintain that thick and creamy consistency, I don’t recommend swapping this ingredient with any other dairy product. If you must, a lighter cream can work (but the sauce will be thinner) or a lactose-free heavy cream will also work.
• Parmesan Cheese: If possible, try to freshly shred your own parmesan right off the block for the best flavor and texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: This really seals the deal on that cheesy goodness!
• Fresh Spinach: for color and added nutrition!

How to make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

This pasta bake recipe comes together in no time! Here’s a little sneak peek at the process. Scroll down to the recipe card for more info!

Before you get started, make sure you have all of your ingredients prepared and ready. It’s a fast moving recipe.

• Cook pasta to al dente and add to the baking dish.
• Season your chicken with a little salt and pepper, then toss it into a pan over medium heat and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

• In the same pan, melt some butter and add the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings. Cook for just a minute or two before stirring in the flour and cooking until absorbed.
• Slowly whisk in the broth and heavy cream. Cook until thickened.

• Stir in the parmesan and spinach
• Combine sauce with pasta and chicken in the baking dish. Top with more cheese and bake!

Variations and Substitutions

• Add more veggies: This recipe is pretty versatile. Dress it up even more with some mushrooms, tomatoes, broccoli, kale, or whatever else your heart desires!
• Change up the chicken: If you have any leftover Instant Pot Chicken Breast or Shredded Chicken, this is a great recipe to use it with.
• Broth: You can use vegetable broth instead if preferred. In fact, you can make the whole recipe vegetarian-friendly by omitting the chicken and swapping the broth.

How to store Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

Once it’s totally cooled to room temperature, you can store this chicken pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time until warmed all the way through.

Can I make this ahead?

You can easily prep it and freeze it to finish making later!

Prep the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover with plastic wrap or tin foil. Refrigerate up to 4 days before baking!

Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, definitely! High fat dairy always freezes best, so I would avoid freezing this if you swap out the heavy cream.

Assemble the casserole as instructed, but without the cheese topping. Do not bake. Once it’s cooled to room temp, wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to serve it, add the cheese and let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Serving suggestions:

Tuscan chicken pasta is pretty heavy, so lighten up your plate with a veggie side dish like Cheesy Baked Asparagus or Air Fryer Green Beans!

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Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is cheesy, creamy, and so flavorful! Penne pasta is baked in the best homemade sauce and made hearty with bites of chicken spread throughout. Perfect for those crazy weeknights when you need something comforting and easy!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 637cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 5 cups short pasta (340-390 grams) penne, fusili or similar
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken (about 2-3 breasts or 6 thighs)
• salt and pepper

Pasta Sauce:

• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes drained and chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ⅛ – ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach

Pasta Bake

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• Lightly grease one 9×13″ baking dish or two 8×8″ baking dishes. Turn the oven to 375 degrees F if cooking right away (instructions for making ahead or freezing below).
• Cook the pasta according to package directions (just to al dente), drain and place in the baking dish.

Make the pasta sauce

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Cut chicken into ½ – ¾" pieces.
• Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper and cook until lightly browned on all sides and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Place in the baking dish with the pasta.
• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the sun dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes and cook 1-2 minutes.
• Stir in the flour until absorbed, and cook 1-2 minutes.
• Gradually whisk in the broth and cream until combined and smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until slightly thickened.
• Stir in the ¼ cup Parmesan cheese and spinach, then pour over the pasta and chicken in the baking dish. Stir to combine.
• Top with mozzarella and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese.
• Follow directions below to store for later, or cover with foil and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly, then broil to brown the cheese if desired.
• Serve.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Pasta: any variety of pasta will work here, but I find short (but not too small) types work the best. Feel free to swap with gluten-free or whole grain pasta if desired.
• Chicken: we usually use chicken breasts in this recipe, but it’s also a great recipe if you have leftover Baked Chicken Breast or Crockpot Shredded Chicken. Feel free to leave it out for a meatless version or use Italian sausage, cooked bacon, or canned white beans instead.
• Broth: I always choose low sodium broth and adjust the salt as needed. If using salted broth, you may need to adjust the salt content. Feel free to swap for vegetable broth if needed. 
• Cream: heavy cream creates a rich sauce and doesn’t break when cooking. If you want to swap for a lighter sauce, choose evaporated milk instead of regular milk. Regular milk can curdle when cooked. 
• Spinach: fresh spinach adds a great pop of color and nutrition but there are lots of vegetables that work great in here! Tomatoes, mushrooms, kale, broccoli, peppers, and more. Be sure to cook the vegetables first unless they cook in just a couple minutes. 

To make ahead:

1. Refrigerator. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just follow the baking instructions. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to thin the sauce.
2. Freezer. Assemble the casserole without the cheese topping, and don’t bake. Cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil and store in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to serve, add the cheese. To reheat, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight for best results, then remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions (recommended for the best texture.) 

 

Nutrition

Serving: 236grams | Calories: 637cal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 430mg | Potassium: 633mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1778IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles checks all of the right boxes for a weeknight dinner recipe! It’s easy, flavorful, and filling. Tender noodles, protein-packed chicken and a medley of nutritious veggies are cooked in just one pan with the best sweet and tangy sauce!

There are two words that win me over every time – “one pan.” Enjoy more easy one pan recipes like Tuscan Orzo with Chicken, Sausage and Rice and Chicken Meatballs with Orzo.

This one pan teriyaki chicken and noodles recipe has saved me from ordering take-out so many times! This quick and easy homemade recipe is just so much better than what shows up in the little cardboard box — and just as quick!

There are so many bold flavors in the sauce that are created by soy sauce, honey, and more! If you have a selective eater at the table, this might just be the recipe to use to get them to eat their meat and veggies.

Oh, and did I mention just how easy it is? One pan dinners are the BEST!

Ingredients Needed for One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles

• Chicken: Chicken breasts are my personal favorite protein to use in this recipe. However, boneless skinless chicken thighs also work!
• Spaghetti: You can use another type of noodle if preferred. Note that the cooking time may change, so follow the instructions on the package.
• Chicken broth: Low sodium broth is preferred. The soy sauce in this recipe already lends a good salty flavor.
• Veggies: I love this mix of matchstick carrots, snap peas and bell peppers. Garnishing with fresh green onions also adds great fresh flavor. Feel free to toss in more veggies like broccoli, bean sprouts, or whatever else needs to get out of the fridge!
• Ginger and garlic: For both of these ingredients, I recommend using fresh options – not paste or pre-minced alternatives. Fresh garlic and ginger create the most amazing flavor and aroma.
• Vinegar: White wine vinegar gives the sauce a slightly tangy flavor.
• Honey: Adds sweetness to balance out our savory, salty flavors.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is preferred. You can also use coconut aminos or tamari instead if you’d like.

How to make One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles

Take a quick look at how to toss together this teriyaki chicken and noodles recipe! Keep scrolling to the recipe card for more exact measurements and step-by-step instructions.

• Cook the chicken until lightly browned on all sides and fully cooked through.
• Add the veggies and cook until softened, but still crisp.

• Pour all of the sauce ingredients into the pot.
• Bring to a simmer and stir in the spaghetti noodles. Lower the heat and simmer until the noodles are fully cooked. Stir often!

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it meatless: Omit the chicken meat and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian friendly noodle dish. You could also use tofu instead of chicken to still include protein, but you’ll want to set the tofu aside once it’s cooked, then add it to the dish right at the end. It’ll get mushy if cooked with the noodles.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and cook them according to package directions. Also keep in mind that soy sauce has gluten, so you’ll want to use coconut aminos or tamari instead.
• Add more veggies: Broccoli, beansprouts, baby corn, water chestnuts, cabbage, mushrooms, bok choy… I could keep going! There are so many ways to add more nutrients to this healthy dinner recipe.
• Make it spicy: Take a walk on the wild side by sprinkling in some crushed red pepper flakes. Or, stir some chili garlic sauce when you add the other sauce ingredients to the pan.

How to store One Pan Teriyaki Chicken Noodles

Let your leftovers fully cool to room temperature prior to storing. Keep everything in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Add a splash of broth or water and reheat for 30 seconds at a time in the microwave, stirring each time it stops, until warmed through.

Can I freeze teriyaki chicken noodles?

Sure thing! Let everything cool to room temperature, then transfer it all into an airtight freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge prior to reheating.

Keep in mind that both the pasta and the veggies will have a softer texture after freezing, so if you like your pasta al dente this may not be the best option for you.

Serving suggestions:

Typically, I don’t serve this one pan dinner recipe with a side dish. There’s already meat, noodles, and veggies in the pan – it’s a complete dinner.

However, you could always have the full take-out experience with some egg rolls or egg drop soup, or have an Asian-inspired dinner party and add in these Chicken Lettuce Wraps, this Sweet and Sour Pork and this Vegetable Lo Mein!

More one pan meals you’ll love!

• One Pan Tuscan Orzo with Chicken — a reader favorite!
• Creamy Gemelli Pasta recipe — a simple meatless meal.
• Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage — full of flavor!
• Cajun Chicken Pasta — a little extra kick 😉
• Baked Gnocchi with Sausage — an all around fave

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One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles

One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles checks all of the right boxes for a weeknight dinner recipe! It's easy, flavorful, and filling. Tender noodles, protein-packed chicken and a medley of nutritious veggies are cooked in just one pan with the best sweet and tangy sauce!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Diet Low Fat

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 448cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 3 chicken breasts (cut into 1" pieces) about 1.5 lb
• salt and pepper
• 1 cup matchstick cut carrots
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 bell pepper sliced
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth sodium reduced
• ½ cup soy sauce sodium reduced
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic about 4 cloves
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger
• 350 grams Spaghetti broken in half
• 2-3 green onions sliced

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• Add canola oil to a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook, flipping once, until browned (3-4 minutes).
• Add the carrots, peas and peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
• Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic and ginger and stir until combined.
• Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and add spaghetti. Reduce heat to medium, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir in green onions and serve.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions: 

• Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because we usually have them on hand. You can sub for boneless chicken thighs, or omit for a meatless meal.
• Vegetables: If you want to bump up the veggie content, you can easily add mushrooms, bok choy, cabbage or a coleslaw mix, or broccoli slaw mix. Feel free to experiment here.
• Chicken broth and soy sauce: I always use low sodium chicken broth and soy sauce so I can control the seasoning. If you’re using regular soy sauce or broth, it may be more salty. 
• Spaghetti: We always have spaghetti on hand and we love it in this dish! Feel free to swap with another noodle of your choice. Keep in mind that the cook time may differ.

Nutrition

Serving: 252grams | Calories: 448cal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 1619mg | Potassium: 784mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 4436IU | Vitamin C: 39mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 2mg

The post One Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Noodles appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

For more amazing Asian-inspired dishes, try my Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, One Pot Chicken Chow Mein recipe, Sweet and Sour Pork, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, and this Vegetable Lo Mein!

This Ramen Noodle Soup is so easy to make, but it’s packed with delicious Asian-inspired flavors that will blow your taste buds away!

Imagine diving into a bowl of steaming hot ramen, with rich and comforting flavors, aromatic spices, and savory broth – in just 30 minutes.

It’s quick and simple to make, perfect for any occasion from cozy date-nights to busy weeknight dinners or special occasions!

The star players in this delightful dish are chicken breasts, low-sodium chicken broth, instant ramen, and a medley of fresh vegetables.

Ingredients Needed:

• Oil: I tend to use canola oil to sauté veggies, but you can use other kinds of cooking oil if you prefer.
• Vegetables: carrots add a slight sweetness and crunch to the dish, while red bell pepper brings a mild, sweet flavor and vibrant color to the ramen.
• Garlic & Ginger: fresh garlic cloves will add a depth of savory flavor to the dish, while freshly minced ginger adds a warm, spiced flavor that is irresistible.
• Red Chili Flakes: to bring a bit of heat to the dish. Adjust the amount to your personal preference.
• Chicken Broth: a flavorful broth that serves as the base of your ramen soup. I prefer to start with low sodium broth and add salt, but you can start with a pre-seasoned broth and adjust the added salt as necessary.
• Chicken: I use chicken breast meat here, but you can use other kinds of meat for a different flavor. If you have leftover Shredded Chicken, Instant Pot Shredded Chicken or Crockpot Shredded Chicken — even better!
• Green Onions: they add a fresh, sharp flavor that contrasts well with the rich broth.
• Salt: to season and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Noodles: use instant ramen noodles, as they cook quickly and are great for absorbing all the delicious flavors. You don’t need the flavor packet for this recipe.
• Soy Sauce: adds umami flavor and depth to the dish without making it too salty.
• Chili Crunch: for an extra kick of heat and texture.

How to Make Easy Homemade Chicken Ramen Soup

This recipe is quick and easy to make, it’s ready in just 30 minutes! Full instructions are included in the recipe card below.

1. Sauté: Sauté the carrot, bell pepper, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes in oil until slightly softened.
2. Add other ingredients and cook: Add the broth, chicken breasts, onion whites, and salt. Cook until the chicken is cooked through.

3. Shred chicken: Remove the chicken to a cutting board and shred it.
4. Add chicken and noodles: Add the chicken back to the pot with the ramen, and cook. Stir in onion greens, soy sauce, and chili crunch. Serve hot.

How do I store Ramen Noodle Soup?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the broth and noodles separately if possible, to prevent the noodles from becoming too soft. Simply reheat the broth, and add the noodles just before serving.

Can I freeze Ramen Noodle Soup?

If you have a larger batch, you can freeze the broth and chicken for up to 3 months. I’d recommend cooking fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy your ramen again. Thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove, or in the microwave, for the best results.

Easy Ramen Noodle Soup Variations

• Make a vegetarian ramen noodle soup. Use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with tofu, or even add more vegetables like baby bok choy or sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Turn up the heat. There are several ways to add more heat to this dish. Use chili oil to sauté the veggies, or add some chili oil on top of the dish at the end. Add some red pepper flakes, some diced chilis, or your favorite hot sauce to this dish for more spice.
• No ramen? Swap it out for spaghetti or spaghettini.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete Asian-inspired meal, top your flavorful soup with sesame seeds and pair it with sides like steamed edamame, gyoza (dumplings), a simple cucumber salad, or a soft boiled egg.

Ramen Noodle Soup is best served in large bowls to give you ample space to arrange your toppings beautifully.

You can even try some Air Fryer Broccoli or Air Fryer Green Beans on the side for more color and nutrients.

More Delicious Recipes with Noodles

Dinner

Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

Dinner

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Dinner

Crockpot Chicken and Noodles recipe

Dinner

Crock Pot Beef and Noodles

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Ramen Noodle Soup

Ramen Noodle Soup is made with instant ramen noodles and tender shredded chicken cooked in chicken broth, seasoned with fresh garlic, ginger, and chili flakes! It's packed with a ton of flavor that will have you coming back for more.

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 340cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon oil
• 1 cup carrot matchsticks (or finely sliced or shredded carrot)
• ½ red bell pepper (finely sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• ⅛ teaspoon red chili flakes
• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 green onion (whites and greens separated)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 packages instant ramen (seasoning packet removed) 55 grams or 2 oz each.
• 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
• chili crunch (optional)

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• In a large pot, add oil and heat over medium-high heat.
• Add carrot, bell pepper, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes and cook until slightly softened (about 3 minutes), stirring often.
• Add broth, chicken breasts, onion whites (keep out the greens) and salt. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook about 10-15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
• Remove chicken to a cutting board and shred.
• Add chicken back to the pot with the ramen (you can break it into smaller pieces for shorter noodles). Cook 3 minutes or until noodles are al dente.
• Stir in onion greens, soy sauce and chili crunch if desired (you can also add a sprinkle of red chili flakes for additional heat). Serve.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Vegetables: feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap these out for ones you have on hand. There are lots of vegetables that would work in here! Shiitake mushrooms, zucchini, snap peas, bok choy, sliced cabbage, and more would all be perfect here.
• Chicken broth: I choose low-sodium broth so that I can control the sodium. If you have salted broth, you may want to omit the salt and add it before serving. You can also choose vegetable broth and omit the chicken for a vegetarian meal.
• Chicken breasts: chicken breasts are lean and stay perfectly juicy when simmered in this soup, but you can also choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs if that is what you enjoy. You can also omit the chicken and add additional veggies.
• Put an egg on it: A lot of people enjoy their ramen noodle soup with a soft-boiled egg on top. I confess I am not one of those people, but you are more than welcome to add one if you prefer!

Storage

• Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the broth and noodles separately if possible, to prevent the noodles from becoming too soft. Simply reheat the broth, and add the noodles just before serving.
• Freeze: If you have a larger batch, you can freeze the broth and chicken for up to 3 months. I’d recommend cooking fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy your ramen again. Thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove, or in the microwave, for the best results.

Nutrition

Serving: 466grams | Calories: 340cal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 1398mg | Potassium: 760mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 5882IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Ramen Noodle Soup appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

This Rigatoni Pasta Bake is an easy weeknight dinner that’ll make everyone at the table happy! Tender rigatoni is tossed in a flavorful meat sauce and gets baked to perfection beneath a blanket of both parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Make ahead and freezer friendly!

Enjoy more of the best baked pasta dinner recipes like Baked Mostaccioli Pasta, Baked Gnocchi with Sausage and Cheesy Baked Spaghetti.

This rigatoni pasta bake is great for those nights when you’re seriously hungry and need to feed a small army! Tender bites of rigatoni pasta are served with a seasoned meat sauce that’ll make your mouth water all under a generous coating of cheesy goodness.

This make-ahead, freezer-friendly baked rigatoni recipe is sure to be a regular in your menu rotation! It’s easy-peasy to toss together and always hits the spot.

Why we love this pasta bake recipe:

• Filling: With plenty of pasta and ground beef, this dinner is sure to fill you up after just one serving. However, it’s so good you may just go back for seconds anyways!
• Freezer-Friendly: This is an excellent dinner to make ahead of time and freeze for later! Scroll down for more info on the simple freezing process.
• So Easy: This is a huge win in my home, especially on those crazy busy weeknights! This baked rigatoni recipe takes just about 15 minutes to prepare before you toss it in the oven.
• Inexpensive: This recipe is loaded with budget-friendly ingredients that’ll give you a great family dinner without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Needed for Rigatoni Pasta Bake

• Beef: I like to use lean ground beef in this recipe. It has plenty of flavor, and less fat than ground chuck.
• Onion: You can use any kind of onion—red, white, yellow, or sweet. Dice it into small pieces.
• Italian Seasoning: An Italian seasoning blend gives a savory herbal flavor to this bake. Feel free to substitute whatever herbs and seasonings you like, though. Basil, oregano, parsley, etc.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the brightest flavor, but you could substitute garlic powder as well.
• Salt and Pepper: A little goes a long way!
• Marinara Sauce: You’ll need a couple of large jars of your favorite pasta sauce.
• Rigatoni: If you can’t find (or don’t want to use) rigatoni, penne pasta makes a good substitute, and so does ziti.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is my go-to! Provolone is also a good option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded tastes best if you have time to spare.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add more or less to alter the heat level of the meat sauce.

How to make Rigatoni Pasta Bake

Take a look at how to toss together this easy pasta bake! Keep scrolling to the bottom of this page for more detailed instructions.

• Cook the ground beef and onion together until the meat is browned and the onions have softened. Drain any fat.
• Add the Italian seasoning, garlic, salt and pepper to the meat. Cook for just 1 minute.

• Stir the pasta sauce into the dish. Cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
• Cook the rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente. You don’t want it to be too soft! Reserve ½ cup of pasta water after draining.

• Stir the reserved pasta water into the meat sauce, and then combine the pasta and sauce, stirring well.
• Pour the pasta into a baking dish, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Uncover, add cheeses, and bake for another 10 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy Free: To make this pasta bake dairy free, simply swap the cheese for dairy free cheese. Or, leave the cheese out entirely. Be sure to check the rest of your ingredients to make sure they don’t have dairy in them.
• Veggies: Bump up the veggie content of this casserole by adding extra vegetables to the meat sauce as it cooks. Mushrooms, zucchini, peppers, or even shredded carrots go well in here!
• Lighten Up: To lighten the recipe, opt for ground turkey or Italian turkey sausage in place of the ground beef, and use low-fat cheese. Also, be sure to look for pasta sauce with no added sugar and unrecognizable ingredients

How to store Rigatoni Pasta Bake

Place the pasta bake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of water or broth, cover and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Can I freeze Rigatoni Pasta Bake?

Yes! Simply cover in plastic wrap and then in a layer of tin foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the recipe name and the date, and pop it in the freezer.

Thaw and cook: I like to thaw and cook so that it heats through more evenly. Simply place the frozen casserole on the counter to thaw for about 6 hours, or leave in the fridge overnight. Add a splash of water, cover and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Cook from frozen: place the casserole in the oven at 350°F, covered only with foil. Bake until heated through, about 50-60 minutes. It may take up to 90 minutes, but you’ll need to keep an eye on it to be sure. If your baking dish is not freezer-to-oven safe, then take the casserole out of the freezer early, and leave it out on the counter to thaw for 1-2 hours before baking.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Simply prepare your pasta bake up to the point of baking. Then cover in plastic wrap or foil (or a lid if your baking dish has one that fits tightly). Stick it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour ½ cup water over the pasta (trust me on this one!) and bake as per the instructions.

PRO TIP: The reason I pour the water over is that the pasta soaks up moisture as it sits in the refrigerator. Adding water will help the dish bake up moist, and will result in delicious, saucy pasta, not watery pasta as you might think!

Serving suggestions:

Serve this saucy baked pasta recipe with a veggie side to lighten things up a bit! Some of my favorites include Cheesy Baked Asparagus, Air Fryer Broccoli and Roasted Vegetables.

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Rigatoni Pasta Bake

This Rigatoni Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting casserole made up meat sauce, rigatoni pasta and cheese! Meal prep and freezer friendly.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 440cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼-½ teaspoon red chili flakes (according to your tastes)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cups tomato pasta sauce roughly 2 jars
• 500 grams Rigatoni pasta about 1 lb
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
• fresh parsley to garnish

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• In a large saucepan, stir and cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned and onions have softened. Drain any juices released.
• Add the Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, red chili flakes and pepper and cook 1 minute.
• Add the pasta sauce and cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat, for 5 minutes. Set aside.
• Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add rigatoni, reduce heat to medium-high, and cook just until al dente (it will continue to cook slightly in the oven).
• Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain pasta. Stir reserved pasta water into meat sauce.
• Combine pasta and pasta sauce in saucepan. Pour into a lightly greased 9×13″ or similar baking dish.
• Cover with a lightly greased piece of foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes or until heated through.
• **Optionally, cover and refrigerate up to 2 days. Bake at 350 degrees F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
• Uncover and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake an additional 10 minutes (or broil 2-3 minutes), until cheese has started to brown.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:

Ground Beef: feel free to swap the ground beef for ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy according to your tastes), or ground pork, chicken or turkey.

Vegetables: onion provides a great flavor base for our sauce, but this is also a great time to add in other vegetables. Finely chopped or shredded carrots, mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, celery and more are great additions. You can also stir some spinach into the sauce after simmering.

Rigatoni: this recipe works just as well with any cut of pasta! Feel free to use what you have on hand. I often use a whole grain variety. 

Nutrition

Serving: 376grams | Calories: 440cal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 1310mg | Potassium: 899mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 865IU | Vitamin C: 12.3mg | Calcium: 196mg | Iron: 4.1mg

More Pasta Recipes

• One Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
• Creamy Ranch Bowtie Pasta Salad
• Baked Spaghetti

The post Rigatoni Pasta Bake appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

This hearty Italian Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food! With tender homemade, meatballs, vegetables and pasta in a delicious tomato-based broth with Parmesan cheese, it’s a delight for your taste buds!

This Italian Meatball Soup recipe combines the savory goodness of homemade Italian-style meatballs with a flavorful broth and a variety of vegetables.

Soup can be a hard sell to my kids, but a soup that’s loaded with meatballs and pasta is always a win around here!

It’s a nutritious and balanced meal in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights for the whole family.

Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a breezy summer night, this soup is a versatile dish that fits all seasons and occasions.

The combination of beef and pork in these homemade meatballs gives them a depth of flavor and the addition of Parmesan cheese adds a hit of saltiness.

This easy soup recipe is easy to adapt, whether you prefer using leaner meat or want to add a spicy kick to it!

With ingredients like Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese, this soup will bring the flavors of an Italian kitchen to your dining table.

It’s like a little Italian holiday, but without leaving the comfort of your home!

For more hearty soup inspiration, check out my Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup, Italian Wedding Soup, this Chicken Rice Soup, and my Tomato Tortellini Soup.

Below you’ll find all the tips and tricks you need to make the best meatball soup!

Ingredients Needed:

Homemade Meatballs

• Bread: use a slice of soft bread to make fluffy bread crumbs to give the ground meat mixture more substance when making it into meatballs.
• Meat: I’ve used a combination of lean, ground beef and lean, ground pork for these meatballs.
• Cheese: freshly shredded parmesan cheese is best to add a great salty, umami flavor.
• Egg: helps to bind the meatball ingredients. 
• Seasoning: use Italian seasoning with salt and black pepper to bring classic Italian flavors to this dish.

Meatball Soup

• Vegetables: use a classic trio of onion, carrot, and celery to make a great savory base for the soup that’s also packed with essential nutrients.
• Tomatoes: use diced (or crushed) tomatoes as well as tomato paste for a tomato base in this soup that works well with the meatballs.
• Seasoning: fresh garlic cloves, Italian seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes, and a bay leaf will pack a ton of classic Italian flavor into this soup, with a bit of a kick too!
• Broth: I use low-sodium chicken broth to add a great depth of savory flavor, and also to better control the saltiness of the dish.
• Cheese: use a parmesan rind if you can, as it melts wonderfully into the soup, giving it a deep, rich, umami, cheesy flavor. Simply pull it out before serving.
• Pasta: I’ve used uncooked ditalini pasta here as I think it works well with the meatballs. You can use any small pasta that you have!
• Spinach: fresh spinach leaves add color, a fresh flavor, and nutrients to this soup. You can also swap with fresh kale if you have it on hand.
• Marinara Sauce: use your favorite brand of marinara sauce to add even more tomato flavor to the soup.

How to Make Italian Meatball Soup

This recipe takes a bit of time but is worth it all! Full instructions are included in the recipe card below.

Meatballs

1. Make meatball mixture: Combine the bread crumbs, beef, pork, cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then let the mixture sit.
2. Make meatballs and sear: Make meatballs, then brown them on both sides. Remove them from the pot and set them aside.

Meatball Soup

1. Sauté veggies: Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Add other ingredients: Add the tomato paste, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf, and cook.

3. Deglaze and add broth, tomatoes, and cheese: Stir the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Parmesan rind, then deglaze the pot and cook.
4. Add pasta and meatballs: Stir in the pasta and meatballs, then cover and cook. Stir in spinach and marinara sauce before serving.

Italian Meatball Soup FAQs

Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the meatballs. Achieving tender and juicy meatballs is the first step to a successful meatball soup. When combining the meat mixture, avoid overmixing as it can result in dense meatballs. A gentle stir is all you need to bring the ingredients together. 
• Let the flavors meld. Letting the meatball mixture sit for 10-20 minutes before rolling it out into balls allows the flavors to meld, resulting in more flavorful meatballs.
• Adjusting the consistency. You might want your soup to be thicker or thinner. If the soup is too thick, adding a bit more broth can easily make it thinner. If you want it thicker, remove some of the soup, blend it with an immersion blender, and add it back in. Alternatively, use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
• Freshen the soup when reheating it. Add a splash of lemon juice, broth or a handful of fresh parsley to rejuvenate the flavors and bring back the vibrancy of this delicious meatball soup when reheating it.

Italian Meatball Soup Variations

• Add some garnishes. Add an extra sprinkle of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese on top of the soup before serving can elevate the dish with a creamy texture and a salty kick. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• Use a different broth. Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth can be used interchangeably, depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.
• Add more veggies. This recipe is so versatile; you can add almost any of your favorite vegetables to enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Try mushrooms, zucchini, chopped bell peppers, sweetcorn, peas, or whatever seasonal vegetables you have a surplus of!
• Use other kinds of pasta. Small pastas like orzo or mini shells are excellent substitutes for ditalini, while brown rice or quinoa are great gluten-free options.
• Add extra flavor. Add a splash of lemon juice, a dollop of sour cream, some Worcestershire sauce, or additional herbs to add an extra layer of flavor to this already delicious soup.

Serving Suggestions

We always have bread on our dinner table, but it’s a perfect side to any soup. Try my Homemade Breadsticks, a slice of my No Knead Artisan Bread, some classic Garlic Bread, or these Cheddar Bay Biscuits for dipping!

More Easy Meatball Recipes To Try

Dinner

Sweet and Sour Crockpot Meatballs + VIDEO

Dinner

Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

Dinner

Instant Pot Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes + VIDEO

Dinner

Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs Recipe + VIDEO

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Meatball Soup

This hearty Italian Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food! With tender homemade, meatballs, vegetables and pasta in a delicious tomato-based broth with Parmesan cheese, it’s a delight for your taste buds!

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 428cal

Author Ashley Fehr

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1 slice soft bread (about ¾ cup fluffed bread crumbs)
• ½ lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (fresh if possible)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Meatball Soup

• 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (chopped)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can diced or crushed tomatoes (28oz/798 ml)
• 1 parmesan rind
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups spinach (roughly chopped)
• ½ cup marinara sauce

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

Meatballs

• Tear bread into small pieces and place in a food processor or blender. Process until the bread is in fine crumbs.
• In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, beef, pork, cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper — don’t overmix. Let sit for 10-20 minutes.
• Shape into 1″ balls (I get about 30-35) and place on a plate.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large soup pot or large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. They do not have to be cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside. (*OPTIONAL: you can also bake the meatballs if you do not want the juices in the soup — see instructions below)

Meatball Soup

• Add the carrots, celery, and onion (no need to clean out the pot!) and cook in the leftover fat from the meatballs for about 5 minutes or until crisp-tender.
• Add tomato paste, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Parmesan rind and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any browned bits. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
• Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are almost tender.
• Stir in the uncooked pasta and meatballs. Cover and reduce the heat to medium, then cook for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
• Stir in spinach and marinara sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve.

Video

Notes

• To bake your meatballs: If you prefer not to have the extra fat and juices from the meatballs in your soup, you can bake them at 400 degrees for about 8-10 minutes or until browned on the outside.

Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Meatballs: you can use store-bought meatballs to save yourself some time if necessary. Simply throw them in with the pasta near the end of the recipe — no need to brown them first. 
• Ground beef and pork: you can use almost any ground meat for these meatballs — ground chicken or ground turkey would be good, leaner options as well. You can also substitute some or all of the meat for ground Italian sausage for more flavor. 
• Bread crumbs: fresh bread crumbs make meatballs so moist, but you can use dried bread crumbs in a pinch. Use about ⅓ cup dried bread crumbs in place of fresh.
• Egg: a flax egg will work just fine if you would like to make this recipe egg-free.
• Pasta: you can use any kind of short pasta here, or even broken spaghetti noodles. Keep in mind that they may require a different cooking time or absorb more moisture. 

Prep ahead: 

• You can make and bake the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or the freezer for up to 3 months. 
• You can chop all of the vegetables and store them in the fridge for several days before preparing this soup. 
• You can prepare the soup up until the pasta is added, then store it (without the pasta and spinach) for up to 4 days in the fridge. Simply cook the pasta and stir into the soup with the spinach to serve. If you refrigerate with the pasta, it may become bloated and will not have an al dente texture.

Storage

• Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As it sits, the flavors will meld together, so the leftovers are delicious too! Make sure to allow it to cool to room temperature before putting it in the fridge.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well. Pour the soup once it has cooled to room temperature into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a little bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

 

Nutrition

Serving: 426grams | Calories: 428cal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 933mg | Potassium: 883mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 4797IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 174mg | Iron: 4mg

The post Italian Meatball Soup appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.

Orzo is one of our favorite pasta shapes, because it is small and can be used in a wide variety of recipes. Our kids also love it because it’s easy for them to scoop!

What is orzo?

Orzo is a small, flat pasta that looks like rice, in the sense that it is long and narrow and just a little larger.

It can be cooked like pasta, in a large pot of boiling, salted water, or similar to rice, in a one-pan method where it absorbs the majority of the cooking liquid as it simmers.

Like all pasta, it is perfect for taking on a variety of different flavors and can be paired with vegetables, meat, other proteins, and your favorite pasta sauce. It is perfect for warm and cold preparations!

See some of our favorite orzo recipes below, and let me know if you get a chance to try any!

How to cook orzo:

There are two methods for cooking orzo:

Traditional boiled method:

Simply bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, roughly 7-8 minutes (but always check the package and taste test for best results).

Rice method:

Bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil, then add in the uncooked orzo. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

Our favorite easy Orzo recipes:

Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo

Delicious and filling, this Sun Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo one-pot dish is ready in less than 30 minutes! It's perfect for busy weeknights, or to serve at a dinner party or a special occasion!

Check out this recipe

Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta is a one-pot recipe for tender orzo tossed in a light and cheesy cream sauce. It's simple to make and comes together in a total of 20 minutes!

Check out this recipe

Sausage Orzo Soup

Sausage Orzo Soup is filling, comforting, and so easy to make, with flavorful Italian sausage and yummy orzo pasta in a savory tomato sauce, it's perfect for warming up on a cold day or for feeding the whole family on busy weeknights!

Check out this recipe

One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

This One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo recipe is so delicious, and only takes 45 minutes to make! With homemade chicken meatballs in a creamy Parmesan sauce, it's cooked with yummy Orzo pasta to make a filling dish the whole family will love!

Check out this recipe

Greek Pasta Salad

This Greek Pasta Salad recipe is flavorful and filling, made with the freshest ingredients and a homemade Greek dressing! It's very quick and easy to make, perfect to serve as a side dish with a hearty main, or as a light dinner on hot summer days.

Check out this recipe

One Pan Tuscan Orzo with Chicken

This amazing One Pan Tuscan Orzo with Chicken recipe is perfect for making a healthy, filling, quick, and easy dinner the whole family will love on busy weeknights! 

Check out this recipe

Greek Chicken Orzo

Bursting with Mediterranean flavor, this Greek chicken orzo is the perfect weeknight dinner! It comes together in one pan in just 35 minutes.

Check out this recipe

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash

This creamy orzo pasta with roasted butternut squash, kale, fresh sage and Parmesan cheese is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dinner option.

Check out this recipe

Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo Pasta Salad bursting with your favorite Greek fixings on your table in 30 minutes! It’s easy to make, exploding with bright flavors and textures and is make ahead friendly!

Check out this recipe

Parmesan Portobello Orzo – Budget Bytes

This super simple and flavorful Parmesan Portobello Orzo will become your next go-to side dish. Ready in 30 minutes, it pairs with chicken, beef, or pork.

Check out this recipe

The post 10 Best Orzo Recipes appeared first on The Recipe Rebel.