Ground beef and orzo come together in a delightful dance of flavors that creates a dish perfect for cozy evenings or lively family gatherings. Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen, with savory notes teasing your senses and promising a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. savory ground beef stir fry.
This ground beef orzo recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about rekindling those warm memories of family dinners where laughter echoed around the table. Whether it’s a chilly night or you’re simply craving something hearty, this dish promises to deliver an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. hearty cowboy casserole ground turkey skillet dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef orzo recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with robust flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table
- The vibrant combination of colors makes it visually appealing, turning any dinner into a feast
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies you have on hand!
Everyone raved about this dish at our last family gathering, leaving no leftovers behind.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option while still keeping all that juicy flavor.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors while adding a delightful texture to your dish.
Onion: A medium onion works best; it adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that aromatic punch—don’t skimp on this!
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels while enhancing the overall flavor.
Tomato Sauce: Choose a high-quality tomato sauce; it brings moisture and richness to the dish.
Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens add color and nutrition—plus, they wilt beautifully into the mix.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano will elevate the taste—homemade blends work too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan on top creates an indulgent finishing touch—because who doesn’t love cheese?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and toss in chopped onions. keto-friendly hamburger skillet Sauté until they turn golden and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
Browning the Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned throughout, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant—about 1 minute. The smell will be irresistible! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
Pasta Meets Broth!: Pour in vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add orzo pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes until orzo absorbs most liquid.
Toss in Greens and Tomato Sauce: Uncover the skillet and gently fold in spinach (or kale) along with tomato sauce. Cook until greens wilt down and everything is heated through—this should take around 3-4 minutes.
Finish with Cheese!: Remove from heat; sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over top before serving. The cheese will melt slightly from the residual heat—pure bliss!
And there you have it! Your mouthwatering ground beef orzo is ready to be devoured. Serve piping hot with some crusty bread on the side because who can resist dipping?
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that combines wonderful textures, vibrant colors, and unforgettable flavors!
You Must Know
- This delicious Ground Beef Orzo recipe not only fills your belly but also warms your heart
- It’s a one-pot wonder that combines hearty flavors with comforting textures, making it an instant family favorite
- Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then add onions and garlic. Cook the orzo separately while the meat simmers in broth for perfectly tender pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken, and add seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always taste as you go!
- Adjust seasoning to match your flavor preferences
- Remember, not all orzo brands cook the same; check the package for precise cooking times
- A little cheese sprinkled on top can elevate this dish even more!
Sharing meals made with love is what it’s all about! I still remember the first time my friends devoured this dish—they even asked for seconds!
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for quick weeknight dinners.
How do I know when the orzo is cooked perfectly?
The orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite; taste test as you cook!
Ground Beef Orzo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground beef orzo combines tender pasta with savory beef and vibrant greens, creating a comforting dish perfect for any gathering. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden (about 5 minutes).
- Increase heat slightly, add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7-10 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add orzo pasta, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
- Uncover and fold in spinach (or kale) and tomato sauce; cook until greens wilted (around 3-4 minutes).
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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