Ground beef orzo is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. This comforting dish features tender orzo pasta cooked in a rich, savory sauce with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to clean, making it perfect for busy days.
- Hearty and satisfying: A balanced dish with protein, carbs, and veggies.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Olive oil
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Bell pepper, diced
- Tomato paste
- Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Beef or chicken broth
- Orzo pasta
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the tomato base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor. Add the diced tomatoes and mix well.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta and pour in the broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the dish: Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese if using. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Cheesy addition: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a creamy finish.
- Veggie-packed: Add diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more vegetables.
- Mediterranean twist: Use feta cheese and olives instead of Parmesan for a Mediterranean flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for a lighter option.
2. What type of broth works best?
Beef broth adds a rich flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works well too.
3. Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio, as rice takes longer to cook.
4. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally while it simmers to keep the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with a short-grain rice like Arborio.
6. What can I serve with ground beef orzo?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.
7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs to replace dried ones for a fresher flavor.
8. How do I make this dish creamier?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
9. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, but the orzo may absorb more liquid as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating.
10. Can I add more protein?
Add cooked sausage, shrimp, or even chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
Conclusion
Ground beef orzo is a versatile, comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With its tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato base, it’s a meal that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this delicious one-pan dinner tonight!
Print
Ground Beef Orzo
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Description
This Ground Beef Orzo is a one-pan meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. The tender orzo pasta is cooked with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a touch of tomato, creating a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (200g) uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) beef or chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz/400g) can diced tomatoes (or 1 1/2 cups fresh diced tomatoes)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the Aromatics:
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Orzo:
- Add the orzo to the pan and stir it with the beef mixture for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
- Add the Liquids and Seasoning:
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the oregano, smoked paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Cheese (Optional):
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, for added creaminess and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair it with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo.