Ground Beef Orzo: Amazing 1-Pan Simplicity

Ground beef orzo has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special but is incredibly easy. I remember the first time I made this ground beef orzo recipe; the aroma of savory beef and herbs filled my kitchen, and my family devoured it in minutes! It’s a true one-pan wonder that delivers so much flavor with minimal fuss. This dish is pure comfort food, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Orzo

This recipe is a weeknight dinner dream come true! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

• Incredibly Flavorful: Packed with savory beef, aromatic garlic, and zesty tomatoes, it’s a taste sensation.
• Quick & Easy: This easy ground beef orzo comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a huge benefit, making this a truly easy ground beef orzo.
• Hearty & Comforting: It’s a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or a sprinkle of cheese.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or future dinners.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Orzo

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious and satisfying ground beef orzo with tomatoes:

• 1 pound ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for the best flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin for that lovely fruity note.
• 1 onion, chopped – About 1 cup, this adds a sweet base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that punch of flavor.
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – These bring moisture and a bright, acidic counterpoint to the beef.
• 4 cups beef broth – This is what cooks the orzo and adds deep savory flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta – The star that absorbs all the delicious juices!
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that screams comfort food.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Optional: shredded cheese for topping – Monterey Jack or cheddar work wonderfully.

How to Make Ground Beef Orzo

This one-pan ground beef orzo is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. It’s the perfect example of a simple yet incredibly satisfying dinner.

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Step 2: Add the 1 chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The kitchen will start to smell amazing! Then, stir in the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Pour in the 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the 4 cups beef broth, 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, and 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Bring the entire mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it simmer. You’re looking for the orzo to be perfectly cooked and most of the liquid to be absorbed, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Give it a stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. This ground beef orzo skillet really comes together beautifully during this simmering stage.
5. Step 5: Once the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened nicely, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve this delicious ground beef orzo one pot dish hot, and if you like, top with some shredded cheese for an extra layer of creamy goodness.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Orzo

Elevate your ground beef orzo skillet with these simple tricks that guarantee a delicious outcome every time. These little tips make a big difference in texture and flavor.

• Don’t skip browning the beef properly; that caramelization adds so much depth of flavor to your ground beef orzo.
• Ensure your beef broth is good quality, as it’s a primary flavor component in this dish.
• Resist the urge to add more liquid if it seems dry initially; the orzo will release starch and thicken the sauce as it cooks.

What’s the secret to perfect ground beef orzo?

The real secret to a perfect creamy ground beef orzo is not overcrowding the pan when browning the beef and letting the orzo absorb the flavorful liquids slowly. This allows the starches to release and create that luscious texture without needing extra cream. For more tips on cooking techniques, you can check out our approach.

Can I make ground beef orzo ahead of time?

Absolutely! This ground beef orzo for dinner is fantastic for meal prep. Once cooked, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef orzo?

A common pitfall is overcooking the orzo, which can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of simmering. Also, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan, especially in a ground beef orzo casserole style dish. For more insights into recipe development, see our author’s profile.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Orzo

This versatile ground beef orzo is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. For a truly hearty ground beef orzo experience, I love serving it with a crisp green salad. A simple vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the beef and pasta beautifully. You can learn more about making a great vinaigrette from Simply Recipes.

Another favorite is a side of steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans. The slight crunch and fresh flavor complement the savory pasta perfectly. You could also serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up any extra delicious sauce. It’s a wonderfully adaptable dish for any occasion. For more on pairing sides, consider Food Network’s side dish ideas.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Orzo

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for this delicious ground beef orzo, per serving. It’s a satisfying and balanced meal that’s packed with flavor and protein.

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Orzo

This simple ground beef orzo meal is fantastic for making ahead, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Once your delicious ground beef orzo has finished cooking, the most important step is to let it cool down completely on the counter for about an hour. This prevents condensation in your storage containers, which can make the pasta mushy.

Once cooled, transfer the ground beef orzo to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, it freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up, or microwave it until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Orzo

Got questions about making this delicious ground beef orzo? I’ve got answers! This dish is so popular for a reason, and a few common queries pop up.

What makes this ground beef orzo so flavorful?

The magic really comes from browning the beef well and using good quality beef broth. The diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity that balances the richness, making it a truly satisfying ground beef orzo for dinner. Plus, the orzo absorbs all those amazing flavors!

Can I add other proteins to this ground beef orzo?

You absolutely can! While ground beef is classic, you could try using ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you brown it well and drain any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.

What if my ground beef orzo is too dry?

No worries if your ground beef orzo seems a bit dry! This can happen if the orzo absorbs too much liquid. Simply stir in a splash of extra beef broth or even a bit of water while it’s simmering or after it’s cooked. A little bit of liquid can help loosen it up perfectly.

How do I make this a one-pot ground beef orzo dish with vegetables?

It’s super easy! When you add the onion and garlic in Step 2, you can also toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach. They’ll cook right along with the orzo, making it a complete and nutritious ground beef orzo for dinner.

Variations of Ground Beef Orzo You Can Try

This versatile ground beef orzo recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Whether you’re looking for a dietary change or just want to mix things up, here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal.

For a lighter take, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or even lean ground chicken. If you’re craving something a bit richer, a crumbled Italian sausage adds a wonderful spicy kick. You can also transform this into a delightful ground beef orzo casserole by topping it with a layer of cheese and breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the beef and sauté extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach in its place, using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

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