Meatball Orzo Casserole

There’s nothing cozier than this warm, bubbly meatball casserole fresh from the oven. This creamy orzo bake delivers all the comfort food vibes – without the heavy cream. Instead, a velvety coconut milk Alfredo sauce wraps tender homemade meatballs, orzo pasta and broccoli in rich, dairy-optional goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters and anyone who loves a hearty, cheesy casserole, this dish comes together easily and can be made completely dairy-free with a few simple swaps. Get ready for a new family favorite.

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Meatball Orzo Casserole

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Servings 6

Calories 500 kcal

Author Pamela Higgins

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed
• 2 Tbsp. water
• 1/4 cup minced broccoli florets

Casserole

• 13 oz. light coconut milk
• 2 Tbsp. nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan or dairy-free parmesan
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 8 oz. orzo pasta
• 1-1/2 cups broccoli florets fully thawed if frozen
• 1 cup shredded cheese or dairy-free cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for meatballs.
3. Onto baking sheet, arrange 1 tablespoon scoops of meatball mixture. Bake 20 minutes.
4. In pot, cook orzo al dente, per package instructions.
5. In mixing bowl, whisk together coconut milk, nutritional yeast, grated parmesan and minced garlic until well combined.
6. To 9x13-inch baking pan, add orzo, broccoli florets and cream sauce. Add cooked meatballs and stir. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Set oven temperature to 450 degrees F.
8. Bake casserole 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes

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Nutrition Facts

Meatball Orzo Casserole

Amount Per Serving

Calories 500 Calories from Fat 234

% Daily Value*

Fat 26g40%

Saturated Fat 13g65%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 8g

Cholesterol 72mg24%

Sodium 622mg26%

Potassium 523mg15%

Carbohydrates 36g12%

Fiber 4g16%

Sugar 2g2%

Protein 27g54%

Vitamin A 336IU7%

Vitamin C 24mg29%

Calcium 180mg18%

Iron 3mg17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.