This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a one-pot wonder! With tender ground beef, fluffy orzo, and a splash of flavorful spices, it’s a meal that brings smiles all around.
It’s so simple to whip up that I often make it after a long day. Just toss everything in one pot, let it cook, and dinner is ready. Who doesn’t love less clean-up? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Plant-based meat also works if you’re going vegetarian – it’s flavorful and holds up well!
Orzo: Orzo gives a lovely texture to this dish. If you can’t find orzo, any small pasta like ditalini or even rice can be used as a substitute, but be mindful of the cooking times!
Beef Broth: I love using beef broth because it adds rich flavor. If you want to keep it lighter, chicken broth works too, or you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian touch. You can also make your own broth if you have time!
Seasonings: Oregano and basil are classic, but feel free to get creative. Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice twist. Use what you have on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Orzo Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo so that it’s tender, not mushy, is key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with enough liquid; the orzo needs room to absorb it. The broth-to-pasta ratio here is perfect!
- Stir occasionally as it simmers. This helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Keep a close eye on the timer! Check around the 12-minute mark. It should be al dente.
- If it absorbs liquid too quickly, you can always add a splash more broth or water.
With these tips, your orzo will turn out deliciously every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. So in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it from the skillet.
3. Add the Seasonings and Orzo:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the dried oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper to season the mixture. Then, add the orzo pasta, mixing everything well to combine.
4. Combine Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the beef broth and the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) into the pot. Stir everything together so that the orzo is well-coated. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer until Cooked:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Occasionally stir to make sure the orzo doesn’t stick to the bottom. You want the orzo to be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on top of the orzo mixture. Cover the pot again for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully into the dish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy your hearty and easy savory ground beef orzo dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?
Yes, if you can’t find orzo, you can use any small pasta, like ditalini or small shells. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the pasta you choose, so keep an eye on it as it cooks!
Is This Dish Freezable Once Cooked?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
