Creamy Salmon Pasta Bake (Dump & Bake!)
This creamy salmon pasta bake combines orzo, fresh vegetables, and salmon with a rich Boursin cheese for a deliciously easy meal that bakes in just one dish.
Equipment
- Large Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta (250g)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock (720ml)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt divided
- ¼ teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
- 1 package Boursin garlic & chive cheese (5.3 ounce or 150g)
- 1 pound salmon (450g) deboned and skin removed (fillets or whole)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (300g)
- 2 cups baby spinach (60g)
Instructions
- Start by spreading the orzo evenly in a baking dish. Pour in the chicken stock and sprinkle half the kosher salt and black pepper. Make sure it is all well-distributed.
- Place the salmon pieces right on top of the orzo mix, leaving some space between the pieces for even cooking.
- Spoon chunks of Boursin over the salmon, making sure to nestle them well into the ingredients to encourage even melting.
- Sprinkle the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach over the top, being careful not to overstuff to allow for even cooking.
- Sprinkle the remaining salt over the entire dish and pop it in the oven at 375 degrees F for 35 minutes.
- If you want a fresher texture, add the baby spinach during the last few minutes of baking.
- Once your timer rings, check the salmon and orzo. If it’s still undercooked, pop it back in the oven for a few minutes, being careful not to dry out the salmon.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use center-cut salmon fillets for even cooking.
If the pasta is undercooked after baking, add a cup of extra broth before baking.
When salmon is overcooked, reduce the initial baking time to 20 minutes.
Add spinach after the first bake to maintain its fresh flavor.
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top and a crisp green salad for contrast.
Swap orzo for penne or any other small pasta.
Add a splash of white wine to the chicken stock for added depth.
Include other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
When selecting salmon, center-cut fillets provide consistent cooking and help avoid dry edges.
For dietary modifications, substitute the Boursin with a dairy-free cheese alternative.