Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious & Easy One-Pan Recipe

Ground Beef Orzo: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that’s both comforting and incredibly flavorful! Have you ever craved a dish that’s hearty enough to satisfy your deepest hunger but also light and refreshing enough for a warm summer evening? Look no further! This recipe for Ground Beef Orzo is the answer to your cravings, offering a delightful combination of savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of vibrant vegetables.

Orzo, resembling large grains of rice, has a rich history, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a staple in Greek and Italian cooking, often used in soups, salads, and as a side dish. But when paired with seasoned ground beef, it transforms into a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

What makes this Ground Beef Orzo so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slightly chewy orzo, the rich and savory ground beef, and the burst of freshness from the vegetables create a symphony in your mouth. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in under an hour. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables

1. Prepare your workspace: Before you even turn on the stove, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Chop the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and measure out your spices. This will make the cooking process much smoother.
2. Brown the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the beef well so you don’t have large clumps.
3. Drain excess grease: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This will help prevent the final dish from being too greasy. You can use a spoon to hold back the beef while you pour off the grease.
4. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become translucent and the bell peppers should start to soften.
5. Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Simmering the Orzo

1. Incorporate the tomatoes and sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything well. The tomatoes will add a nice acidity and depth of flavor to the dish.
2. Add the orzo and broth: Add the orzo pasta and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the orzo is submerged in the liquid.
3. Season generously: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s harder to take it away.
4. Bring to a simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
5. Check for doneness: After 15 minutes, check the orzo for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). If it’s not quite done, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking periodically. If the liquid has been absorbed and the orzo is still not done, add a little more beef broth, about 1/4 cup at a time.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Rest before serving: Once the orzo is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
2. Serve and garnish: Serve the ground beef orzo hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a salty, savory note, while the parsley adds a pop of freshness.
3. Optional additions: Feel free to customize this dish to your liking. You could add other vegetables, such as chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little bit of beef broth or water when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Tips for Success:

• Use good quality ground beef: The quality of the ground beef will affect the flavor of the dish. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the orzo: Overcooked orzo will be mushy and unappetizing. Be sure to check it frequently during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste: This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Make it your own: This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique version.

Variations:

• Spicy Ground Beef Orzo: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. You could also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Vegetarian Orzo: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You could also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Cheesy Ground Beef Orzo: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese at the end of cooking.
• Mediterranean Ground Beef Orzo: Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the skillet.

This Ground Beef Orzo recipe is a simple, satisfying, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ground beef. I hope you enjoy it!

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Orzo recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to try it. The combination of savory ground beef, tender orzo pasta, and a medley of vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your family begging for seconds. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s incredibly satisfying – everything you could possibly want in a go-to meal.

But what truly elevates this dish is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even some chopped spinach would be fantastic additions. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a completely different flavor profile.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Ground Beef Orzo is delicious on its own as a hearty main course. However, it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a more elegant presentation, consider topping it with a dollop of ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. You can even pack it in a lunchbox for a satisfying and flavorful midday meal.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

I’m confident that this Ground Beef Orzo will become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible recipe.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how amazing it is. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the section below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Ground Beef Orzo as much as my family and I do.