This Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner is a warm and comforting dish! With juicy ground beef and tender orzo pasta cooked right together, it’s perfect for busy nights.
It’s a one-pot wonder, so clean-up is a breeze! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving—who can resist extra cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They work well too and still pack in great flavor.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives this dish a nice texture, but if you’re out, you can substitute with rice or small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes can add a vibrant taste. You can also use tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds creamy goodness to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly with Ground Beef?
Cooking orzo alongside ground beef is a great way to absorb flavors, but timing matters! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure the ground beef is fully cooked before adding the orzo. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy.
- Coat the orzo well with the meat mixture so it soaks up all the delicious juices.
- Add enough broth or liquid. Start with 2 cups for 1 cup of orzo—this ratio helps with cooking it evenly.
- Keep the heat manageable—don’t rush! Simmer on low heat and cover until the orzo is tender, typically around 10–12 minutes.
Following these tips will help you master the orzo and make a tasty dinner everyone will love!
Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups beef broth (or low-sodium stock)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Savory Ground Beef Orzo Dinner takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15–20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something quick yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, using a spatula to break it apart, until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
If there is a lot of excess fat, you can drain some of it. Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Mix in the Orzo:
Stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it’s well-coated in the beef and onion mixture. This adds flavor to your orzo right from the start!
4. Combine the Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Then, add the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. This will allow the orzo to absorb the flavors and become tender.
6. Add Cheese and Serve:
Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, until it’s melted and creamy. Finally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and savory ground beef orzo dinner with your loved ones! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the chosen meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Yes! While orzo works perfectly with this recipe, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the pasta used.
How to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a combination of mushrooms and lentils or your favorite plant-based meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and ensure your cheese (if used) is vegetarian-friendly.
