If you’ve been longing for a dinner that is both gloriously simple and deeply comforting, this Ground Beef Orzo just might become your new favorite staple. Juicy beef, perfectly cooked orzo, a savory tomato base, and a shower of Parmesan—all unite in one pan for a satisfying meal that’s as weeknight-friendly as it is company-worthy. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that checks every box: flavor, texture, warmth, and ease. Prepare to fall in love with the easy magic of Ground Beef Orzo!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Ground Beef Orzo recipe plays a vital role in creating bold flavors, creamy textures, and gorgeous color on your plate. Although you’re working with pantry staples, they’re thoughtfully combined to deliver a cozy and memorable meal.
- Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps brown the beef for deeper flavor.
- Ground beef: The star of the show, providing heartiness and savory depth to the orzo.
- Yellow onion (diced): Sautéed onion brings sweetness and a gentle backbone to the dish.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the orzo with irresistible aroma and a punch of flavor.
- Dried oregano: Offers herbal, Mediterranean notes that complement the beef beautifully.
- Paprika: Gives a touch of smokiness and a pop of color.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the beef and overall balance.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and rounds out the flavors.
- Uncooked orzo: The creamy, rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the goodness and thickens the sauce.
- Low-sodium beef or chicken broth: Provides savory depth while keeping things from getting too salty.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Offer acidity, moisture, and bright red color for the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Brings saltiness and a creamy finish that ties everything together.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): Fresh herbs lift the dish with color and brightness if you like.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a little kick and extra warmth at the table.
How to Make Ground Beef Orzo
Step 1: Sauté and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks, letting it brown nicely—this gives you a wonderful base of savory flavors. After about 5–6 minutes, once the beef is cooked through and has picked up some golden edges, drain off any excess fat if you find there’s a lot in the pan. This keeps the finished dish rich without being too heavy.
Step 2: Build the Flavor with Onion and Spices
Next, add your diced onion to the pan and stir it into the beef, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds—just long enough for the seasonings and garlic to bloom and fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Simmer with Orzo, Broth, and Tomatoes
Stir in the uncooked orzo, then pour in your broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included). Give everything a good mix to ensure the orzo is evenly distributed and submerged in liquid. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover your pan. Let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes so nothing sticks, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese so it melts smoothly into the creamy orzo. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let the Ground Beef Orzo sit uncovered for a few minutes to thicken up—this brief rest lets all the flavors meld. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle over fresh herbs or a dash of red pepper flakes just before you serve.
How to Serve Ground Beef Orzo
Garnishes
A finishing shower of extra Parmesan, a scattering of freshly chopped parsley or basil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take Ground Beef Orzo from simple to spectacular. Think of garnishes as your chance to add color, fragrance, and a finishing touch of personality to every bowl.
Side Dishes
This one-pan wonder pairs beautifully with a quick green salad dressed in lemony vinaigrette or crisp roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent spread, try some crusty garlic bread to mop up any leftover sauce, or a bowl of marinated olives for a nibble between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Ground Beef Orzo into a cozy bake by transferring the finished dish to an oven-safe dish, topping with extra cheese, and broiling for a few minutes until bubbling. For meal prep or packed lunches, portion servings into containers and top with a mix of chopped herbs and a lemon wedge for a pop of fresh flavor at work or school.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Ground Beef Orzo into an airtight container as soon as it cools. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
Want to make a bigger batch? Let the orzo cool completely, then pack individual portions into freezer-safe containers. Ground Beef Orzo freezes nicely for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen things up if the orzo has thickened too much. Stir well and heat until piping hot throughout, then finish with another little sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work great as substitutes if you want a lighter version. Just be sure to season generously, as they have milder flavors than beef. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
Do I need to cook the orzo separately?
Nope! The beauty of Ground Beef Orzo is that the orzo cooks right in the same pan, soaking up the rich flavors of the meat, broth, and tomatoes. It saves you both time and extra dishes.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to add a couple of handfuls of baby spinach or frozen peas during the last few minutes of simmering. Chopped zucchini or bell peppers also work wonderfully—just sauté them with the onion to soften them up.
What’s the best broth to use?
You can use either beef or chicken broth for Ground Beef Orzo, depending on what you have on hand. Beef broth delivers a deeper flavor, but chicken keeps things light. If you want to control the salt level, always opt for low-sodium broths.
Is this meal good for leftovers or meal prep?
This dish is ideal for leftovers! Ground Beef Orzo tastes even better the next day and holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat as needed, and enjoy tasty, comforting lunches all week long.
Final Thoughts
With its rich flavor, minimal cleanup, and fuss-free cooking method, Ground Beef Orzo is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of a comforting dinner that’s as easy to cook as it is to love!
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Ground Beef Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring ground beef and orzo cooked in a savory broth with tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- red pepper flakes for heat (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked orzo, broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed. Let sit uncovered for a few minutes to thicken, then sprinkle with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes if using.
Notes
Notes:
- Add a handful of spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for extra veggies.
- This dish reheats well for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
