This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a cozy, one-pot meal that combines tender orzo with flavorful ground beef and veggies. It’s quick enough for busy nights and packed with taste!
I love how everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, this dish is perfect for leftovers! Who else secretly hopes there’s extra? 🙋♂️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for less grease, but feel free to choose ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option or want to reduce fat.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a great choice because it cooks quickly and blends well with other ingredients. You can swap it for another small pasta like couscous or ditalini if you prefer.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work great here for convenience. You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them – just chop them up. Adding a splash of tomato sauce can also give a richer flavor.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or mozzarella melts nicely into the dish. If you want a nuttier flavor, try using Parmesan or adding feta for a Mediterranean twist!
How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo is simple, but timing is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure to add the orzo only after browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Combine orzo with broth and diced tomatoes next. This helps the orzo soak up all those yummy flavors as it cooks.
- Cook it covered on low for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; different caps cook at slightly different rates!
- You’re aiming for a creamy consistency, so if it looks dry before the orzo is tender, stir in a bit more broth.
Following these steps will ensure your orzo is perfectly cooked and full of flavor!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in around 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Things Up:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. This will help the onion and garlic to sauté nicely and build flavor.
2. Sauté Onions:
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until it’s softened, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not brown so keep a close eye on it.
4. Brown the Beef:
Now it’s time for the ground beef. Add it to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-6 minutes.
5. Season It Up:
Once the beef is cooked, season the mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and basil. Stir everything well to combine all the flavors!
6. Add the Orzo:
Pour in the orzo pasta and stir it around to mix it with the beef and onion. This will help the orzo soak up all the deliciousness as it cooks.
7. Combine Liquids:
Now, add the beef broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then you’ll be ready to simmer.
8. Simmer to Perfection:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
9. Final Touches:
Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and creamy, creating a rich, delicious texture.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm! This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is both comforting and tasty—perfect for a family meal!
FAQ for Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for any substitutions!
What if I Don’t Have Orzo Pasta?
No worries! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just follow the cooking times on the package for the specific pasta you use.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash more broth if needed to keep it creamy!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini during the cooking process. Just remember to adjust cooking times for the veggies you choose, so they become tender but not overcooked!