This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a total winner! With juicy ground beef, tender orzo, and a mix of tasty spices, it’s a satisfying meal that’s quick to make!
I love how everything cooks in one pot, saving me from cleaning up a mountain of dishes. Plus, my family always goes back for seconds—yummy and easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main source of protein in the dish. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even meat substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta that resembles rice. If you can’t find it, you can use small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even regular rice. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are great for convenience! If you’re using fresh tomatoes, make sure to peel and dice them. You could also use tomato sauce for a smooth texture.
Spices: The oregano and basil give flavor depth. If you’re out of fresh herbs, Italian seasoning works well. I like to add a little extra smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, but it’s optional!
How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo perfectly is key to this dish! You want it tender but not mushy. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to give the orzo enough liquid to absorb as it cooks. The beef broth adds flavor!
- Don’t forget to keep an eye on the cooking time. Usually around 10-12 minutes is perfect, but taste to check.
- Let the dish sit covered after cooking. This allows it to thicken up nicely and combine the flavors well.
Give it a stir right before serving to fluff the orzo. Enjoy!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dinner takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes or until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully.
3. Mix in the Tomatoes and Spices:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let this cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine all the flavors together and then lower the heat.
4. Add Orzo and Broth:
Add the orzo pasta and beef broth to the pan. Stir everything well to ensure the orzo is fully submerged in the liquid.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Rest and Adjust:
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes. This helps it thicken a bit more. Taste and adjust any seasoning to your liking!
7. Serve:
For the grand finale, serve your delicious dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy every savory bite of your ground beef orzo dinner!
FAQs for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great option if you’re looking for something healthier. Just note that it might take a minute or two longer to cook, so keep an eye on it while simmering.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils, plant-based ground meat, or mushrooms instead!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point of simmering and then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find the orzo has absorbed too much liquid upon reheating, you can add a bit of broth or water to loosen it back up.
