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

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that combines hearty flavors with comforting ease, look no further than Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe. This dish is the perfect example of how simple ingredients come together effortlessly in one pan to create a meal that feels both homey and satisfying. With tender ground beef mingling with perfectly cooked orzo pasta in a rich tomato sauce, you’re in for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is half the fun, especially when each one plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and even color. These essentials keep the dish vibrant and comforting, while keeping things wonderfully simple.

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended: For a juicy, flavorful base that browns beautifully and keeps the orzo moist.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle fruity richness.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an aromatic punch that brightens the whole dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced: Provides a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Creates a luscious tomato base with a mix of chunky and saucy textures.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Thickens and enriches the sauce for a comforting consistency.
• 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• 2 cups beef broth: Provides savory depth and ensures the orzo cooks perfectly without drying out.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean herbal note.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Offers an earthy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the tomatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle heat that wakes up the dish without overpowering it.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish just before serving.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brings a fresh, vibrant touch and a lovely green garnish.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and let it sizzle while you break it apart with a spoon. Browning the beef thoroughly creates incredible flavor through caramelization and renders some fat that will enrich the sauce. Once nicely browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper

Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir occasionally as they soften, becoming sweet and fragrant. This step layers in subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch that balances the richness of the meat perfectly. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion turns translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Aroma

Mix in the minced garlic, cooking for just about a minute until it releases all its wonderful aroma. Garlic is delicate and can turn bitter if burnt, so keep an eye on it and stir gently. This little boost of fragrance adds a perfect savory lift to the entire dish.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Now the skillet is buzzing with the classic, comforting flavors that ground beef orzo is known for.

Step 5: Add Orzo and Broth, Simmer

Stir in the orzo pasta and beef broth, then bring everything to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The orzo will soak up all those delicious liquids and herbs, transforming into tender, slightly chewy bites packed with flavor.

Step 6: Check Doneness and Adjust

After about 15 minutes, test the orzo. If it still feels a bit firm, let it cook a few minutes more, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary so it doesn’t dry out. Taste the mixture and tweak the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs to get it just right for your palate.

Step 7: Serve Warm with Toppings

Once the orzo is cooked to perfection and the flavors are balanced, serve hot. Top each portion with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a bright, cheesy finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe is that it shines on its own, but you can make it even more spectacular with a few simple touches. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds nutty richness, while fresh parsley offers a clean, herbal brightness that lifts the whole bowl. You can also try a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon for an unexpected zing.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is so hearty, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. For a little extra carb love, warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. These sides keep the meal balanced while complementing the robust flavors of the orzo and beef.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at a dinner party or just have some fun, consider serving the Ground Beef Orzo in individual ramekins or shallow bowls to highlight the vibrant tomato sauce and colorful veggies. You could also turn it into a stuffed pepper filling or layer it in a casserole dish topped with melted cheese for a baked twist. This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to get creative with your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect candidate for next-day lunch or a quick dinner solution.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely, too. Let it cool completely, then place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the orzo might be a touch softer upon thawing, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up and prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works well too—cover the dish and add a little extra liquid if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb can be used instead of ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, especially since leaner meats might cook faster and tend to dry out more easily.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out the orzo pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety that has a similar size and cooking time. Be sure to check that your beef broth and tomato products are gluten-free as well.

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to include chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Just add them in along with the onion and bell pepper or towards the end of cooking depending on the vegetable’s cooking time.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances all the flavors without making the dish overly spicy. You can easily leave them out or adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it for a crowd?

Yes, Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it early in the day or the night before and simply reheat just before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes like you cooked it fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Ground Beef Orzo: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Recipe is like giving yourself and your family a warm, comforting hug on a plate. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—everything you want from a weeknight dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own delicious memories around this wonderful dish.

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

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3.8 from 237 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Ground Beef Orzo is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender orzo pasta simmered with flavorful ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This easy recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it offers a deliciously balanced blend of textures and tastes that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Oils

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

Tomatoes and Liquids

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth

Pasta and Seasonings

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Brown the 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 browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Mix in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Check the orzo at 15 minutes for doneness; if still firm, continue cooking a few more minutes, adding additional beef broth as needed.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
8. Serve: Serve the ground beef orzo hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
• Can be made ahead and reheated; add a little broth if the dish dries out upon reheating.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, keeping in mind the flavor and fat content will vary.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American