This quick Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is filled with tasty beef, soft orzo pasta, and colorful veggies. It’s a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze—win-win!
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s always a hit with my family. I like to sprinkle some cheese on top before serving. Who doesn’t love a cheesy finish? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient, providing a rich flavor and protein. You could substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a lighter option.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small pasta with a lovely texture. If you don’t have orzo, try substitute it with small elbow macaroni or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Broth: Using beef broth adds depth to the flavor, but chicken broth or vegetable broth works just as well. Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought is a good backup!
Cheese: I prefer cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy finish, but Parmesan brings a nice salty kick. If you want a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Can You Make Sure the Orzo Doesn’t Stick?
A common challenge with cooking orzo is it getting sticky or clumping together. Here are some tips to keep your orzo nice and separate:
- Stir the orzo shortly after you add it to the skillet to coat it in the beef mixture.
- Make sure to use enough broth when cooking. This helps the orzo cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally while it simmers to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying this hearty Ground Beef Orzo Dinner in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your dish.
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil for extra flavor.
3. Combine Orzo and Liquids:
Now, it’s time to stir in the orzo pasta. Cook it for 1-2 minutes to slightly toast it. Then, pour in the beef broth and the drained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Add Greens and Cheese:
If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until it’s wilted. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, comforting Ground Beef Orzo Dinner!
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use A Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season appropriately!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! If you can’t find orzo, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even quinoa can work well as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your chosen pasta.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Cook it as directed and then let it cool. Store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it. Just note that the orzo may continue to absorb liquid, so you might want to add a little broth when reheating.
