This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a one-pot meal that’s hearty and delicious! With juicy ground beef and tender orzo, it’s a quick way to fill up the family.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just cook everything in one pot, and voilà! Perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives this dish richness. If you want a leaner option, consider ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or chickpeas instead – they’ll still provide great texture.
Orzo: This small pasta cooks quickly and blends well with the beef. If orzo isn’t available, any small pasta like ditalini, farro, or quinoa could work as substitutes.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. You can swap them with fresh tomatoes or even tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Spices: Dried oregano and thyme are must-adds for flavor. You could use Italian seasoning for a similar effect. If you like a kick, try crushed red pepper flakes!
How Do I Ensure the Orzo Doesn’t Get Mushy?
Cooking orzo to the perfect consistency can be tricky, but here are my tips to keep it just right:
- Use enough liquid: Ensure you have 2.5 cups of broth or water; the orzo will absorb a lot.
- Simmer with the lid on: This keeps steam in and cooks the orzo evenly.
- Check for doneness: Start checking around the 12-minute mark; you want it tender but firm.
By following these steps, you’ll have orzo that’s perfectly cooked and complements the beef wonderfully!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of 25 minutes from start to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. This will get things cooking nice and quickly!
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion and let it cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This adds sweetness to your dish!
3. Add Garlic:
Toss in the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Toast the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it lightly for about 1-2 minutes. This step adds a nice nutty flavor to the dish!
6. Add Liquids:
Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). This creates the perfect base for your orzo!
7. Season it Up:
Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together!
8. Simmer:
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Give it a stir occasionally.
9. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top, cover it again, and let it melt for a few minutes. Yum!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s ready, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve it warm, and enjoy your hearty, savory ground beef orzo dinner with your friends and family!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or plant-based ground meat for a similar texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta or grain you choose.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread also makes a delicious accompaniment!
