One-Pan Creamy Baked Salmon and Orzo Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts are provided for the original yield, but cooking steps remain the same even if quantities are adjusted.

• Cooking spray, for greasing
• 1 cup dry orzo
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 4 baby zucchini, sliced into coins
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups chicken bone broth
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 (5.2-ounce) package spreadable gourmet cheese, such as Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 (3-ounce) salmon fillets, skin removed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In the prepared dish, combine the orzo, corn, zucchini, and chopped onion. Crumble the Boursin cheese over the vegetables.
3. Pour in the chicken bone broth, milk, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt and stir gently to combine.
4. Nestle the salmon fillets into the orzo mixture. Brush the fillets with the remaining olive oil and season with the rest of the salt and Cajun seasoning.
5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. Remove the foil, gently stir the orzo along the edges (keeping the salmon intact), and return the dish to the oven uncovered. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until the orzo is tender and creamy and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 728
• Total Fat: 37g (47% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (68% DV)
• Cholesterol: 108mg (36% DV)
• Sodium: 1821mg (79% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 58g (21% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% DV)
• Total Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 42g (84% DV)
• Vitamin C: 24mg (26% DV)
• Calcium: 347mg (27% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (18% DV)
• Potassium: 995mg (21% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary depending on ingredient brands and availability. Consult a dietitian for medically restrictive diets.

History of Origin

The concept of combining salmon with pasta-like grains such as orzo traces its roots to the fusion of Mediterranean and North American cooking traditions. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta originating from Greece and Italy, has long been paired with vegetables and seafood. When salmon became a widely accessible fish across North America, home cooks began adapting Mediterranean one-pan dishes to include this rich, flavorful ingredient. Over time, the creamy baked version evolved as a modern comfort-food interpretation, blending classic European ingredients with contemporary American cooking preferences.

Regional Characteristics

In the Mediterranean region, orzo is often cooked simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. In contrast, American kitchens frequently incorporate dairycream, milk, or soft cheesesgiving rise to a richer, more indulgent texture. The inclusion of Boursin cheese adds a distinctly French influence, while Cajun seasoning contributes a bold Southern American touch. These regional layers create a dish that reflects a blend of global culinary elements presented through the lens of American home cooking.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional salmon pasta dishes, which usually require multiple pots, this recipe is designed as a true one-pan meal. The orzo absorbs broth and dairy directly in the oven, eliminating the need for separate boiling. The result is a cohesive casserole-like texture that differs from typical skillet or stovetop preparations. Compared to creamy risottos, this dish is less labor-intensive and relies on baked absorption rather than continuous stirring.

Where It Is Commonly Served

One-pan baked salmon and orzo is a staple in busy households seeking hearty, nutritious meals with minimal cleanup. It is often served at casual family dinners, potlucks, and small gatherings where convenience meets elegance. Because it presents beautifully straight from the oven, it also appears in meal-prep menus, Sunday brunch spreads, and cozy weeknight suppers.

Interesting Facts

Orzos name means barley in Italian, referring to its shape rather than its ingredients. Salmon, one of the most nutrient-dense fish, maintains its moisture exceptionally well during baking, making it ideal for one-pan recipes. The combination of Cajun seasoning and creamy cheese is unusual yet beloved, showcasing how modern fusion cooking embraces contrast. Additionally, dishes like this became widely popular during the rise of sheet-pan and one-pot trends in the early 21st century, driven by the desire for simplified home cooking without sacrificing flavor.

FAQ about One-Pan Creamy Baked Salmon and Orzo Recipe

Comments